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.

Dancing Sparrows - Amusing scene of a group of sparrow-headed people performing the Sparrow Dance. The unusual creatures have human arms and legs, but the feathered heads of birds. They wear kimono and sandals and dance around waving their arms. An intriguing comic subject, drawn with lively brushwork.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

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

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Creasing and slight rubbing at edges, a few spots. Please see photos for details.