Maekawa SENPAN (1888-1960); Okamoto IPPEI (1886-1948); Kondo KOICHIRO (1884-1962) et al

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A set of two handscrolls in original paulownia storage box, 30 feet x 10 in; 914.4 x 25.4 cms. Sumi and full colour on paper by 18 artists of the Tokyo Manga Association, produced in 1921: 27 paintings in scroll 1; 28 paintings in scroll 2. The scrolls are a modern manga rendering of the Tokaido Road in homage to Hiroshige, the artists following and interpreting the same route that Hiroshige walked. Satirical and comedic showing the modernisation of Japan at a time manga was gaining popularity due to publications like the Jiji Manga newspaper supplement, previously known as the Ponchi, “Punch.” 150 sets were produced (although some sources give as many as 250-300 being made). No two sets are exactly the same ; indeed, some artists changed their designs substantially. Tokaido gojusan-tsugi Manga emaki, “Manga Handscrolls of the Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido Highway.” Inside lid inscription: Tokaido emaki, dojin juhachi mei hitsu, “Tokaido handscrolls, painted by eighteen members.” Tokyo Chuo Bijutsukai dated Taisho 10 (1921).

A fascinating historical document. Some slight separation in the scrolls, but otherwise in very good condition. Various signatures and seals.

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