Keisai EISEN (1790-1848)

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The Kirifuri waterfall, Kirifuri no taki, santaki no sono ikkei, “The Falling Mist Waterfall, View of One of the Three Falls.” From a set Nikkosan meisho no uchi, “Celebrated Views in the Nikko Mountains.” A group of travellers admire the fall from below. From a set of five prints: It was probably intended to be a set of three prints but another two were added, possibly with the intention of going on to emulate Hokusai’s waterfall set. Published by Yamamotoya Heikichi (Eikyudo) c. 1843-47. In contrast to Hokusai’s set, Eisen’s have a more muscular appearance. See: The Japanese Print: A New Approach, J. Hillier, Bell & Son, 1960, Chapter XVI, where Jack Hillier discusses Eisen and his landscapes and considers this set “… is perhaps the crowning achievement of his career as a designer of landscape prints.”

Fine impression. (Late impressions are not known of this set, probably due to not having the popularity of Hokusai’s set.) Very good colour and condition. Signed Keisai Eisen utsusu.

Status: Available