Gekko's Essays - Begun in 1886, "Gekko's Essays" (Zuihitsu) is a wonderful series encompassing a wide range of subjects. Gekko depicts figures from history and mythology, including famous beauties, poets, scholars, and warriors, along with a few supernatural creatures. These handsome designs are rendered in Gekko's distinctive painterly style, with soft washes of color and flowing calligraphic line work, expertly printed by Matsuki Heikichi to capture these qualities. The series was completed by 1887, but woodblocks are found with dates up to 1899, proving the popularity of the designs, which continued to be printed. A great choice to collect or display.

Shinto Altar at Hachiman Shrine - Handsome depiction of Wake no Kiyomaro kneeling before a Shinto altar at Usa Hachiman Shrine. He wears a flowing brown tunic over a pink robe and white pants, and a court cap, a prayer slip in his outstretched hands. The altar is set with bowls and pots of offering, and a vase holding evergreen foliage. Lovely detail in the architectural setting.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 8 1/2"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Backed with somewhat stiff paper. A few creases and stains. Please see photos for details.