Comments - Handsome scene from the life of the ninth century courtier Sugawara no Michizane, a noted scholar and calligrapher. Falsely accused of plotting against the emperor, he was relieved of office and exiled to the island of Kyushu. While there, he taught the local children calligraphy. He is shown here sitting atop an ox with a scroll spread out across his lap, overseeing some of his students as they practice writing in the sand with sticks. Other children perch on the rocks at right, watching him with interest, while at left, others gather around an elderly man who carries a bag of wooden tops, handing them out to the youngsters. A boat is pulled up on the sand at left, and a yellow glow spreads along the horizon. A wonderful illustration of this historic subject, beautifully detailed with burnishing in the ox, delicate embossing in the old man's tan kimono, and fine bokashi shading in the sky.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 14 1/8” x 29 1/8” + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Some soiling and stains. Some creasing. A few holes, repaired. Please see photos for details.