Classic Pillow Prints - One of the popular and favorite print styles from the late 18th and early 19th century was the pillow print. Set against lovely, traditional background settings, these finely designed old images usually depict a young couple in a private setting, playfully cuddling or resting before or after lovemaking. These prints were normally variations on that theme and reflect the sometimes slightly erotic nature of Japanese woodblock prints. The great Edo masters Utamaro, Kiyonaga, Toyonobu, Harunobu, and Toyokuni I all created pillow prints. Reprints of these wonderful old designs are a great opportunity to collect these classic images at a fraction of the price of an original.
The Higher Floor of a Restaurant Pillow Print - One of Utamaro's most famous images from his series "Poem of the Pillow" showing a young couple in an embrace in an upstairs room of a restaurant overlooking Shinobazu Pond. A private moment after enjoying tea, set out behind them. Beautifully drawn and detailed, and exquisitely printed. Very rare in a reprint and the most desirable of Utamaro's pillow prints. An exceptional woodblock.
Artist - Utamaro (1750 - 1806)
Image Size - 9 1/2" x 14 3/4" + margins as shown
Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.
