Sumo Prints - The ancient sport of Japanese sumo wrestling proved a popular subject for woodblock print artists during the Edo and Meiji eras. Portraits of individual champion wrestlers often depict them during the ring entering ceremony, wearing a ceremonial belt that opens into an apron trimmed with fringed. Other designs show the athletes in action during matches, with the referee and judges present in front of crowds of other sumo and enthusiastic patrons. Matches were sometimes held on the grounds of a temple to raise funds for the temple, with temporary arenas erected for the event. These interesting prints are a nice choice for a collector interested in this classic Japanese sport.
Comments - Handsome triptych depicting three sumo wrestlers enjoying a meal in a parody of three famous courtesans. They sit on cushions around a red lacquer tray holding a platter of fish and other dishes. The man at right smiles happily as he holds a cup of sake, his purple kimono patterned with a crane in flight above splashing waves. The fellow in the center looks dismayed as he eyes his companion, his robe featuring a lion and large pink peony blossoms. At left, the wrestler Koyanagi Tsunekichi looks up with a pleasant smile, a dragon and red flames over the shoulders of his purple kimono. A great design with lively color and a nice subject for a sumo enthusiast.
Artist - Kuniteru II (1829 - 1874)
Image Size - 13 7/8" x 29 5/8" + margins as shown
Condition - Nice color and good detail. Small losses at corners, a few holes, repaired.
