status: available

Utagawa TOYOKUNI I ( 1769 – 1825 )

A complete diptych showing Kagekiyo and Mihonoya no Shiro battling. This is an episode from the beginning of Chapter 5, “The Dropped Bow” in book 11 of the Heike Monogatari, “ Tales of the Heike.” This episode, which took place in 1184, has the Genji warrior Mihonoya no Shiro confronting the Heike Kagekiyo on the beach at Yashima. Published c 1815 by Yamamotoya Heikichi.

Fine impression and in exceptional condition. Fine colour with large borders left and top. Signed Toyokuni ga.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI ( 1839-1892 )

Lu Ta ( Lu Chi Shen ) demolishing the gate of the temple of the Five-Crested Mountain. A Chinese captain, he accidentally killed a man and to escape death he became a priest at the temple. The abbot cut his hair and renamed him Lu Chi Shen, "Lu of Deep Wisdom." However, quickly disregarding priestly vows, he became violent again and drank heavily. Staggering back one night he shattered the temple gate fighting the huge wooden guardian figures. The abbot dimissed him and he reappears as one of the 108 heroes of the Suikoden. Published by Matsui 1887.

Very fine impression of the earliest state of the first edition with blind printing and burnishing. This design was reprinted by Hasegawa with seal in upper left margin "Reproduction not permitted" and lacking date. Also, the lovely pigment used to colour the torso of the guardian figure ( which oxidizes ) is replaced with an inferior colour . There are also intermediate printings between first and Hasegawa version. Fine colour. Fine condition with left margin intact: These vertical designs must have the left border uncut as it often contains publication information. Signed Yoshitoshi.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI ( 1839-1892 )

The demon Ibaraki of Rashomon ( a gate south of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto ) visits Watanabe no Tsuna disguised as an old woman to retrieve its severed arm. This famous story relates how Watanabe cut off the arm after camping out at the gate to rid the neighbourhood of the beast. ( See below on this website for Yoshitoshi's vertical diptych of the same subject. ) From Yoshitoshi manga, "Sketches by Yoshitoshi" from a fine set of seven diptychs. Published by Kobayashi 1885-86 ( this being 1885 ).

Very fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Fine condition apart from one minor mark. As originally published with no backing paper, with the margins completely untrimmed ( often cut in this set ), and plenty of space for joining. Signed Yoshitoshi ga.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI ( 1839-1892 )

Sakata Kintoki asleep in Raiko's chamber preparing to rid him of the monstrous spider. From Yoshitoshi manga, "Sketches by Yoshitoshi." A fine set of seven diptychs published by Kobayashi 1885-86 ( this being 1886 ).

Very fine impression of the first edition; the spider's web printed in silver and with burnishing. Fine colour and as originally published with no backing paper, with the margins completely untrimmed ( often cut in this set ), and plenty of space for joining. Signed Yoshitoshi ga.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI ( 1839-1892 )

Murai Choan murders his brother at the crossroads of Fudanotsuji from Shinsen azuma nishiki-e, "New Selection of Eastern Brocade Pictures." Published 1885-9 by Tsunashima. Choan is a character in a Kabuki drama but there is no mention of him killing his brother - artistic license.

Very fine impression of the first edition ( with three-colour cartouche and yellow borders ). Fine colour and as originally published with no backing paper, with the margins completely untrimmed, and plenty of space for joining. Signed Yoshitoshi.

status: available

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI ( 1797-1861 )

A fine and very rare vertical triptych of Mongaku ( Endo Morito, c. 1120 - 1200 ) subjecting himself to three years penance as a Buddhist monk beneath the waterfall of Mount Nachi in Kii Province. Morito inflicted this punishment on himself because he had inadvertently cut off the head of Kesa Gozen, the wife of the palace guard Watanabe Wataru, with whom he was in love. At the top of the design is Fudo Myo-o, the guardian deity of waterfalls, and at the bottom and top right are Seitaka and Kongara ( doji of Fudo ). This subject lends itself to some wonderful designs: See this website for a rare horizontal triptych by Yoshitoshi , and there are many single sheets by various artists. The vertical triptych format is rare: It was more convenient to view prints in the horizontal and it was difficult to insert into albums, the top sheets having to be heavily trimmed to fit. ( This impression is as published - completely untrimmed. ) Published by Sumiyoshiya Masagoro, c. 1851. Ex B. W. Robinson collection. This impression illustrated in his book Kuniyoshi, The Warrior Prints, 1982, pl. 64 ( Robinson T253 ). Another example of the same state - ex Pulverer collection - is illustrated in Heroes and Ghosts, Robert Schaap, p. 1998, no. 87, p. 102.

Fine impression and colour. Minor creases, otherwise very good condition. Untrimmed  with extra paper for the sheets to join. There are two states of the print: As here with an extra block printing the waves at base of fall, and without. Both are known as fine impressions, although the version without appears to be slightly earlier. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI ( 1832-1892 )

Shows Uesugi no Terutora, best known as Kenshin, riding into battle through clouds of smoke from the set Yoshitoshi musha burui, "Yoshitoshi's Courageous Warriors." He is best known for his long standing conflict with Takeda Shingen. For a time the two champions met every year, the campaigns always ending indecisively. Published by Kobayashi Tetsujiro, 1883 ( reprinted by Tsunajima Kamekichi ). Probably the best design from this excellent set.

Very fine impression of the first edition with two small red seals in left margin, complete date, original publisher and three-colour cartouche. There are a number of later editions of this set. Very fine colour. Album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Taiso Yoshitoshi ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI ( 1797-1861 )

The otokodate  Goshaku Somegoro playing a bamboo flute ( shakuhachi ) from Kuniyoshi moyo shofuda tsuketari genkin otoko, " Typical Types of Manly Fellows in Kuniyoshi's Style." A fine set of portraits of chivalrous commoners published by Ibaya Kyubei, 1845. This is the actual impression illustrated in Heroes and Ghosts, Robert Schaap, 1998, no. 59, p. 81. 

Fine impression and colour. Minor trimming, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI  (1797-1861)

A fine and rare print showing the diving girl escaping with the Dragon King’s jewel. There were a number of prints designed by Kuniyoshi of this subject which lends itself to fine compositions. She is being chased by the Dragon, fish and octopuses. Published 1844 by Tsutaya. The first issue of this print by Tsutaya was around 1838 – 41 ( with the censor seal printed in black ). However, this is one of the rare examples where the reissue was superior to the original: With gradation on the Dragon and better colouration in the water.

 Very good impression and colour. Trimmed round and minor edge wormage. Signed Cho-o-ro Kuniyoshi ga.

status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

Wakashima Gonemon diving into a whirlpool to retrieve the ancient dragon-headed bell; it’s position indicated by two beams of light. The water god was unwilling to part with the bell. The finest design from Azuma no nishiki ukiyo kodan, published by Masudaya 1867/11. Second edition without kiri seal.

Very good impression and colour. Trimmed slightly at bottom, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi ga.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

The old hag of Adachi Moor. A gruesome tale of a high-ranking woman who kills young children to supply their blood to the local lord who suffers from an unknown disease. She is usually shown in a gourd vine-clad hut wielding a large knife. This design shows the actor Onoe Kikugoro V as the old crone in a revival of the Mokuami play in 1890. Published 1890 by Akiyama Buemon.

Fine impression and colour. Minor edge creases, otherwise very good condition. Large margins for joining. Signed Okokkeidoju Yoshitoshi ga.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832–1892 )

Lady Yodo, Yodo no Kimi, from the fine set Ikkai zuihitsu, “Essays by Yoshitoshi.” Lady Yodo ( 1567 – 1615 ) , the concubine of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, was installed at Yodo castle to the south of Kyoto. She bore him a son, Hideyori, in 1598 but the same year Hideyoshi died and Tokugawa Ieyasu staked his claim for political power. Lady Yodo fled to Osaka castle with her child where they eventually committed suicide. She is shown surrounded by smoke from the fire which destroyed the castle. Published by Masadaya, 1872/3.

Fine impression. This is the first edition with red seals in right margin ( rather than black ) and a lightly printed background, rather than the dark ground of later editions. Fine colour. Very slight centre fold and minor edge soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi hitsu.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832–1892 )

Kiyohime from the fine set Wakan hyaku monogatari. “One Hundred Ghost Stories of China and Japan.” This famous story set in A.D.928 tells of unrequited love. It inspired a number of Kabuki and No plays and  relates how Kiyohime’s  love for the monk Anchin, who lived in the Dojo-ji temple on the banks of the Hidaka river, was repulsed due to his monk’s vows. To escape her attentions he hid in the great temple bell which happened to be placed on the ground. Kiyohime, swimming across the flooded river, saw the bell and transformed herself into a dragon which beat the bell and destroyed it and Anchin. Kiyohime is shown emerging from the river. Published by Daikin, 1865. This impression is from the rare first deluxe edition, on thick hosho and with fine burnishing to depict the water streaming off Kiyohime, and other special effects. Later editions lack these subtleties.

Superb impression. Extensive burnishing to clouds, hair and water.Very fine colour ( with deluxe red ). Minor edge thinning but with large margins. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi ga.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832-1892)

Shows Uesugi no Terutora, best known as Kenshin, riding into battle through clouds of smoke from the set Yoshitoshi musha burui, “Yoshitoshi’s Courageous Warriors.” He is best known for his long standing conflict with Takeda Shingen. For a time the two champions met every year, the campaigns always ending indecisively. Published by Kobayashi Tetsujiro, 1883 ( reprinted by Tsunajima Kamekichi ). Probably the best design from this excellent set.

Very fine impression of the first edition with two small red seals in left margin, complete date, original publisher and three-colour cartouche. There are a number of later editions of this set. Very fine colour. Fine condition. Signed Taiso Yoshitoshi ga.

status: available

 Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832–1892 )

Saigo Takamori yumei hosho. Shows the ghost of Marshall Takamori ( 1827 -1877 ) holding a petition. Best known as the leader of the Satsuma rebellion, which was finally quashed at Kagoshima on Sept. 24^th 1877. Saigo was wounded in the leg and his faithful retainer, Beppu Shinsuke, put an end to his life. A popular figure with a statue being erected in his honour in 1899 at the entrance to Ueno Park in Tokyo, and his son being made a Marquis in 1902. This print, published by Funazu Chujiro, was issued just under a year after he died in 7/1878. Exceptionally rare: One other ( trimmed ) impression illustrated in Beauty & Violence, Havilland Press, 1992, no. 37, p. 124. Interestingly, the print has a price of two sen, five rin marked on it.

Fine impression and colour. The ornate brocade printed in silver. Trimmed close on two sides and minor marks, otherwise good condition. Signed Oju “By special request” Yoshitoshi.

status: available

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

An uncut double chuban sheet with a title which appears to read: Yatsuatari doke komori, “Bats Blaming Each Other” but given the title “Bats Comic” by Japanese sources. A set of eight chuban prints published by Joshuya Kinzo, c. 1846. Excessively rare. The bottom design appears to show a [ bat ] Daimyo and female [ bat ] attendants. Unrecorded ? The top chuban shows Sukeroku, illustrated no. 249 in Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Exhibition to Commemorate the 200^th Anniversary of Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s Birth, Japan 1996. Same impression also illustrated in Kuniyoshi, Juzo Suzuki, Tokyo 1992, pl. 435.

Fine impressions and colour. Small backed binding holes and slight soil to corner. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: available

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

An uncut double chuban sheet with a title which appears to read: Yatsuatari doke komori, “Bats Blaming Each Other” but given the title “Bats Comic” by Japanese sources. A set of eight chuban prints published by Joshuya Kinzo, c. 1846. Excessively rare. The bottom sheet has an unidentified subject. Unrecorded ? And the top chuban seems to show a [ bat ] parody of the Chushingura. Unrecorded ?

Fine impressions and colour. Small backed binding holes and slight soil to corner. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: available 

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

An uncut double chuban sheet with a title which appears to read: Yatsuatari doke komori, “Bats Blaming Each Other” but given the title “Bats Comic” by Japanese sources. A set of eight chuban prints published by Joshuya Kinzo, c. 1846. Excessively rare. The bottom design shows the stone steps at Toba. An impression illustrated in Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Exhibition to Commemorate the 200^th Anniversary of Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s Birth, Japan 1996, no. 250. The top design appears to show a [ bat ] entertainer with a [ bat ] monkey. Unrecorded ?

Fine impressions and colour. Small backed binding holes and minor corner soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold 

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832-1892)

A triptych showing a massive exploding mine throwing bodies into the air. Title: Taiheiki Masakiyo nansen no zu, “Masakiyo’s Difficult Battle from the Taiheiki Chronicles.” Published 10/1866 by Yamajin. Although set in the fourteenth century, in fact this is a comment on the recent ( spring of 1866 ) campaign of the Tokugawa Shogun Iemochi. He had temporarily defeated the dissident Choshu samurai who had shelled the Shogun’s palace in Edo in 7/1864. Sato Masakiyo on horseback is probably meant to represent the famous general Kato Kiyomasa. One of Yoshitoshi’s great designs and a similar composition is used by him in several of his picture books.

Fine impression and colour. Slight vertical centre folds strengthened au verso, otherwise good condition. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi hitsu.

status: available 

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861) 

Yorimasa’s retainer, Hayata Tadazumi, despatching the Nue with his sword amongst thunder and lightning. The Nue ( a composite beast, as big as a house with monkey’s head, back of badger, claws of tiger, scales of dragon and tail of snake ) was shot by the skilled archer Yorimasa on the roof of the Shishinden Palace. One of the finest designs from Honcho Suikoden goyu happyakunin no hitori, “Eight Hundred Heroes of our Country’s Suikoden, One by One.” Robinson S4.6. Published by Kagaya Kichiyemon, c. 1830.

 Very good impression and colour. Full size. Slight edge soil. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold 

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1797 – 1861)

Shoki, “The Demon Quellor.” The ghostly Chinese protector of the Emperor Ming Hwang. A favourite subject for the Japanese, he is usually shown beating off annoying oni. He is always depicted dressed in Chinese military attire with the characteristic Chinese hat with side streamers and holding a two-edged sword. Illustrated on the cover of Utagawa Kuniyoshi. An exhibition of the work of Utagawa Kuniyoshi based on the Bidwell Collection, Springfield Museum of Fine Arts, 1980, no. 164. Kuniyoshi designed two other Shoki oban prints. All are rare. Published by Kinshodo, c. 1848 – 53. Ex collection Felix Fricke, seal au verso.

Very good condition. The background is blind printed to imitate partially creped paper. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi.

status: sold 

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE (1797 – 1858)

Gishi katakiuchi no zu, “Revenge of the Loyal Retainers.” The ronin assemble before the castle of Ko no Moronao before their attack. Published 1846 by Aritaya Kiyo-e mon. Rare.

Very good impression and colour. Some edge soil. Signed Hiroshige ga.

status: available 

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Sagino-ike Heikuro grappling with a huge serpent at the lake of Sayama, Tondabayashi, in the Province of Kawachi from Honcho Suikoden goyu happyakunin no hitori, the “Eight Hundred Heroes of our Country’s Suikoden, One by One.” Published 1830s by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon ( but this issued by Iba-ya Sensaburo a little later ). A wonderful design.

Very good impression and colour. Small restored wormhole, otherwise very good condition. Totally untrimmed with extra paper. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga

status: available 

Kochoro KUNISADA (1786-1865)

Shoki, “The Demon Quellor.” The ghostly Chinese protector of the Emperor Ming Hwang. A favourite subject for the Japanese, he is usually shown beating off annoying oni. He is always depicted dressed in Chinese military attire with the characteristic Chinese hat with side streamers and holding a two-edged sword. Published c 1847-1852.

Very good impression and colour. The paper has a semi-chirimen surface. Some creasing and minor marks. Signed Ichiyosai Utagawa Toyokuni hitsu.

status: sold 

Gountei SADAHIDE (1807-1873)

The young Benkei, Oniwaka Maru, “Young Devil Child”, fighting the giant carp in the waterfall of Bishamon gataki. A strong composition, the vivid red of Oniwaka Maru contrasting with the aizuri background. Published by Ibaya Sensaburo.

Fine impression. Burnishing on the scales of the carp. Fine colour. Trimmed to edge of the fan shape and laid onto Japanese paper. Small backed binding holes. Signed Gountei Sadahide ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

The grand wrestling match between Kawazo Saburo Sukeyasu ( right ) and Matano Goro Kagehisa. In the background can be seen the first Kamakura shogun Yoritomo and his entourage. The event took place at Akazawa mountain in 1176 and is probably the most famous sumo match, also giving rise to a new manoeuvre called the “Kawazu hold.” One of Kuniyoshi’s great triptychs; much sought after and rare. By luck the original preparatory drawing for this triptych has survived and is in the Rijksmuseum voor Volkenkunde, Leiden. See Heroes and Ghosts, Hotei publishing, 1998, no.156, p.148. Published 1858 by Maruya Kyushiro.

Fine, early impression. Fine colour. Minor edge damage expertly repaired, otherwise very good condition. Full size. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1832-1892)

The Heian courtier Fujiwara no Yasumasa playing the flute by moonlight. Based on a
painting Yoshitoshi exhibited at the Exhibition for the Advancement of Painting in the
autumn of 1882. The story relates that while Fujiwara no Yasumasa was playing on Ichihara Moor he was approached by the bandit Kidomaru who intended to kill him. Instead he was overcome by the beauty of the music and gave up his plan. Yoshitoshi's painting was so well received, the subject was incorporated into a play with Ichikawa Danjuro IX playing Fujiwara no Yasumasa several months after the publication of the print. Published 1883 by Akiyama Buemon. Considered by cogniscenti to be Yoshitoshi's finest design.

Superb impression of the utmost finesse. This appears to be the only illustrated example with the background clouds wiped from left to right. The "proof" impression in The Philadelphia Museum of Art is annotated "Please print the background colour this way" [ clouds wiped right to left ]. Fine colour. Minimal shaving bottom centre sheet and a slight discoloration on last sheet, otherwise fine condition with extra paper for joining. Signed Oju Taiso Yoshitoshi sha.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Raiko and his retainers attacking the enormous reclining hulk Shuten-doji ( "Great
Drunkard Boy" ) who is in a drunken stupor. Raiko eventually cuts off the monster's head
and returns in triumph to Kyoto. One of Kuniyosh's best designs. Published c.1851-2 by
Amatsu. Robinson T261. Rare.

Very good impression and colour. Minor marks and creasing but generally good condition.
Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.
 

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)



The complete set of six chuban diptychs: Oguri ju-yushi no ichi-nin, "The Ten Brave
Retainers of Oguri, One by One." Robinson S26. Published by Yawata-ya Sakujiro, c.1843. Rare complete.

Fine impressions and colour. Minor marks and soil. Each print signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi
ga.
 

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861) 

Nichiren  struggling up a snow-covered mountain near Tsukahara on the Island of Sado. The best design from Koso goichidai ryakuza, the "Illustrated Abridged Biography of the Founder." Published by Iseya Rihei, c 1831. Like many great landscapes, there exist different states which causes confusion over which is the earliest. The basic difference is that the design is known with and without a horizon line and that there is at least one impression where the uninked, blind-printed line can be seen in a raked light. It has been asserted that those impressions without are the earliest; however, it seems from this that the sumi block was probably cut initially with the line but the publishers quickly realised it looked aesthetically better without printing it, and it was subsequently removed. In any case, this is an extremely rare print and most surviving examples appear to be similar in impression. There is a break in the border to the left of the bottom of Kuniyoshi's signature which could give a guide to the earliest states, but as this is often painted in, it is not reliable. The print offered here is printed with the mountain coloured brown and the overall effect is more dramatic than other impressions and appears to be the only such example, being the one illustrated in various publications. The composition is based on a design in the illustrated book Bunpo sansui gafu by Kawamura Bunpo, published posthumously in 1824. Although not from a landscape set this is considered one of the great 19th century landscapes. Provenance: Ex collection Willibald Netto, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Very good impression and colour with extensive splashed gofun ( now oxidised ). Minor marks and edge soil. Small repair top right corner, but generally very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi hitsu.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)
 

Mitsukuni ( Otaketaro ) defying the skeleton-spectre in the castle Soma no furugosho. One of the iconic Kuniyoshi designs and considered by many to be his finest. Illustrated in numerous publications. Mitsukuni was a principal retainer of Taira no Masakado. After his death his daughter, Takiyasha, went to live in the haunted castle. She was able to summon up the apparitions at will, but the old servant, Mitsukuni, had the ability to defy them until they disappeared. Published 1845. Ex Theodore Scheiwe collection, Part 1, March 21st, 1989, lot 211.

Very good impression. Slight fading. Edge repair bottom left corner last sheet. One or two other minor repairs. Slightly trimmed, principly at top. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

The priest Nichiren having his prayers for rain answered. The second best design from Koso goichidai ryakuzu, "Illustrated Abridged Biography of the Founder". This event happened at Ryozengasaki in Kamakura in 1271. Nichiren was the founder of the Buddhist Nichiren sect ( Nichiren shu - Kuniyoshi being a follower ) and indeed the set of ten prints may have been commissioned to mark the 550th anniversary of his death. Published c 1831 by Iseya Rihei.

Very fine impression of the earliest printing. Fine colour. Extra large margins. ( This design is notorious for having the umbrella trimmed off and/or the title in right margin. ) Very minimal soil bottom right margin, otherwise fine condition. The best example of this fine design I have ever seen. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

Snow from the set Setsugekka no uchi, “Snow, Moon and Flowers” published by Akiyama Buemon, 1890. Shows half-length portraits of famous actors, in this case Onoe Baiko V ( Onoe Kikugoro V, 1844-1903 ) as the priest Iwakura Sogen. Various versions of the story and play exist concerning Sogen’s infatuation with Irokotohime. First edition ( the second state titled “Iwakura Sogen in the Hermitage Scene from Hanafubuki” ).

Superb impression, colour and condition. Totally untrimmed with extra paper all round. Signed Yoshitoshi.

status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

 The best design from the set Tsuki hyakushi, the “Hundred Phases of the Moon”. The set published between 1885 and 1892 ( this being 1886 ) by Akiyama Buemon. Shows Benkei, at the prow of the ship holding Yoshitsune, attempting to pacify the ghosts of the Taira warriors and hence calm the storm. The finest impression of this design I have catalogued.

 Superb impression, fine colour and condition with large margins. Strong wood grain evident and scattered mica. This impression, never having been in an album, avoids the offsetting which often spoils this design because of its position in album form. Signed Yoshitoshi.

       status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

Gikeiki gojobashi no zu. Shows Ushiwaka and Benkei duelling on Gojo Bridge. An episode from the Chronicles of Yoshitsune, 1881. This impression is unlike any other illustrated example: The moon does not have a printed outline and there are delicately wiped clouds across it.

Very good impression and colour. Slight trimming and retains original album backing. Signed Taiso Yoshitoshi ga.

       status: available

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

Nippon ryakushi, “A Brief History of Japan”. Shows Susanoo no Mikoto killing the 8 – headed serpent at Hirokawa in Izumo Province. Published by Izawa Genjiro, 1887. Designed in the same format as the set Dai Nippon shiyaku zue, 1879. An extremely rare triptych.

Very fine impression and colour. Retains original album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Taiso Yoshitoshi ga.

       status: sold

Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece. Shows Mongaku ( Endo Morito c 1120-1200 ) subjecting himself to three years penance as a Buddhist monk beneath the waterfall of Mount Nachi in Kii Province. Morito inflicted this punishment on himself because he had inadvertently cut off the head of Kesa Gozen, the wife of the palace guard Watanabe Wataru, with whom he was in love. Published 1859 ( centre sheet ) and 1860 ( outside panels ) by Kadokin. Extremely rare: Another ( trimmed ) impression in the Baur collection, Geneve, Switzerland.

Fine impression, very good colour. Minor marks, otherwise very good condition. Extensive splashed gofun. Full size with extra paper around. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi hitsu.

       status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Gomo ( Wu Meng ) carrying a smoking pot to keep the mosquitoes away from his father from the set Nijushi-ko doji kagami, “Mirror of the Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Piety”. The set published by Wakasa-ya Yoichi, c 1840. Each print shows an example of a child’s exemplary behaviour in looking after their aged parents. There is a strong western influence in this set. Robinson S13.13.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

       status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Rikuseki ( Lu Chi ) stoops to pick up money for his aged father from the set Nijushi-ko doji kagami, “Mirror of the Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Piety”. The set published by Wakasa-ya Yoichi, c 1840. Each print shows an example of a child’s exemplary behaviour in looking after their aged parents There is a strong western influence in this set. Robinson S13.12.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

        status: available

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861) 

Doji Yoshiharu ( Horio Yoshiharu ) overthrowing a giant boar watched by warriors top right. Published by Tajima-ya, c 1847-50. Robinson T202.

Very fine impression with mica and splashed gofun. Fine colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

 status: sold

Utagawa KUNISADA (1786-1865)

A complete set of five prints of otokodate ( chivalrous men ) showing the champions: Kanoko Kanpei; Kanto Koroku; Hon’machi Amigoro; Shimano Shinpei; and Benkei Tazaemon.

This is a complimentary set to a series “Complimentary Stripes Woven to Order” of bijin busts also showing strong textile backgrounds commissioned to advertise the latest fabrics for the beginning of the New Year. Published by Miyakozawa 1844-6.

Fine impressions and colour. Slight trimming and light album backing. Very good condition. Signed Oju ( by order ) Toyokuni ga.

        status: available

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Tadatsune killing the monstrous wild boar watched by Yoritomo and his entourage. Published c 1842-3. Robinson T99. 

Fine impression and colour. Minor trimming, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

                 status: available

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Yoshitsune with the beautiful fifteen year old Joruri-hime against a misty back-drop. From the set: “Biography of Yoshitsune” published by Iba-ya Kyubei c 1848-53. Robinson S65.6.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

        status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Yamamoto Kansuke overcoming a giant boar in the snow from the set “Stories of Remarkable Persons of Loyalty and High Reputation”. The set published by Ise-Ichi and Yenshu-ya Matabei c 1845. Robinson S35.16. A fine design. 

Fine impression and colour; minor edge damage otherwise very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

          status: available

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Asahina Yoshihide’s fight with two crocodiles in the sea off Kamakura, watched by the Shogun Yoriiye and his nobles in boats. Published by Soshu-ya Yohei c 1842-3. Robinson T119. One of Kuniyoshi’s best designs.

Fine impression and colour; very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

         status: sold

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1890)

Botaro’s nurse Otsuji praying beneath the waterfall for his release: She offers her life for his. The set of thirty-six prints with title: “New Forms of Thirty-six Ghosts” was published by Sasaki 1889-92 ( this design being 1892 ).

Fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Slightly trimmed left margin and light album backing. Signed Yoshitoshi.

          status: sold

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1890)

The ghost of Okiku at Sarayashiki. Accused of stealing a dish, she was killed and thrown into a well by her master. The set of thirty-six prints with title: “New Forms of Thirty-six Ghosts” was published by Sasaki 1889-92 ( this design being 1890 ).

Fine impression of the first edition. Fine colour. Slightly trimmed left margin and light album backing. Signed Yoshitoshi.

             status: sold

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1890)

Yugao, the mysterious girl who appears to Prince Genji as told by Murasaki Shikibu in Genji Monogatari ( written c 1000 A.D. ). The set entitled “One Hundred Aspects of the Moon” published by Akiyama Buemon between 1885-92 ( this design being 1886 ).

Very good early impression. Very good colour. Slightly trimmed left margin and light album backing. Signed Yoshitoshi.

            status: sold

Ichiryusai HIROSHIGE  (1797-1858) 

Taira no Kiyomori haunted by visions: As he was dying Kiyomori believed he saw hundreds of skulls in his snow-covered garden and feared them to be the remains of his victims killed during his rise to power. Published by Ibaya Kyubei c 1845. The best musha-e by Hiroshige. 

Fine impression, colour and condirtion. Signed Hiroshige ga.

      status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Benkei and a leaping magic fox in the snow from a rare set; “Sixteen Stories of Musashi-bo Benkei”. Published by Joshu-ya Kinzo and Daikoku-ya Heikichi c 1848-50. Robinson S68.5

Fine impression and colour. Very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

                  status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

The fight on Gojo Bridge showing Yoshitsune with open fan and Benkei behind. From the set: “Biography of Yoshitsune” published by Iba-ya Kyubei c 1848-53. Robinson S65.10.

Fine impression and colour. Very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

                   status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861) 

The flight of Tokiwa-gozen through the snow with her three children, Imawaka, Otowaka, and Ushiwaka. From the set: “Biography of Yoshitsune” published by Iba-ya Kyubei c 1848-53. Robinson S65.1. 

Fine impression and colour. Very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

       status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

The poet Dainagon Tsunenobu ( 1016-97 ) visited by a ghost reciting a Chinese poem by Hakuraten from the set “One Hundred Poems for One Hundred Poets”. The uncompleted set published by Ebine c 1840-42. Robinson S19.71

Very good impression and colour. Light album backing, otherwise very good condition. Signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga.

                    status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Takatsuna’s greatest exploit: Shown here ( centre ) swimming with his horse across the swollen Uji River to attack Kiso no Yoshinaka. His rival Kagesuye ( left ) and Shigetada further off to the right. Published by Yenshu-ya Hikobei 1849. A wonderful design. Robinson T217.

Superb impression. Very fine colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

              status: available

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

The highly skilled archer Yorimasa shooting the Nue. This event took place in 1153 when the young Emperor Konoe was suffering from sleep deprivation brought on by hideous shrieks emanating from the roof of the Shishinden Palace. Yorimasa successfully killed the beast ( a composite animal as big as a horse with monkey’s head, back of badger, claws of tiger, scales of dragon and tail of snake ). Published by Soshu-ya Yohei c 1842-3. One of Kuniyoshi’s great designs and rare. Robinson T112.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

                       status: available

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Nitta Tadatsune encountering the goddess of Mount Fuji and her dragon in a cavern with numerous stalactites and a fast flowing river and waterfall. Published by Tsuji-ya Yasubei c 1844. Robinson T143.

Very fine impression. Fine colour and condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

                        status: sold

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1798-1861)

Tametomo sinking the foremost ship of Mochimitsu’s fleet with a single arrow. The islanders look on in amazement. Published 1844. Robinson T140.

Fine impression and colour. Very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892) 

Vertical diptych showing Watanabe no Ttsuna  cutting off the arm of the demon Ibaraki at the Rashomon Gate, Kyoto. Published by Matsui 1888 ( Meiji 21 ).

Superb impression, colour and condition of the first edition. All the vertical designs were published by Matsui and many were republished by Hasegawa except Adachi Moor and Inaka Genji. The earliest Matsui impressions are beautifully printed and he insisted his printers use hosho paper ( as on surimono ) for these prints. The Hasegawa edition of this design has a seal “Reproduction not allowed” in upper left margin. It is incorrectly catalogued, no 64, p 87, Beauty and Violence, 1992, which shows a later edition. Signed Oju Yoshitoshi ga.

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892) 

Vertical diptych showing Taira no Atsumori and Kumagai Naozane at the Battle of Ichinotani ( 1184 ). Published by Matsui 1885 ( Meiji 18 ). 

Superb impression and colour and, apart from slight offsetting, fine condition. The first edition ( indeed this may be the earliest state of the first edition ). Signed Oju Yoshitoshi ga.

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

 Vertical diptych showing Taira no Koremochi about to kill the female demon on Mt. Togakushi in Shinano. The episode follows maple viewing when Koremochi fell asleep. The No play Momijigari “Maple Picnic” is based on this story. Published by Matsui Meiji 20 ( 1887 ).  

Superb impression and colour. Slight offsetting, otherwise fine condition. The first edition. Signed Oju Yoshitoshi.

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

Vertical diptych showing Hakamadare Yasuke and Kidomaru fighting with magic. Kidomaru ( below, cross-legged ) holds two wrapped pine branches in his mouth as a spell. Yasuke and Kidomaru are generally considered to be the same person, so why they are depicted here as two individuals is not known. Published 1887 by Matsui.

Very fine impression and colour. Left margin trimmed slightly, otherwise fine condition. The first edition. Signed Oju Yoshitoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861) 

Station 41, Kuwana, from the Tokaido gojusan tsui, Robinson 42. The apparition of the Sea-Monk looming above the sea-captain. The best design from the set. Illustrated in Robinson, pl 49. Published c1845 by Kojima. 

Fine, early impression with perfect bokashi on the ghost. Fine colour. Slight centre fold, otherwise fine condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

        status: available

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

The complete set ( two showing ) of 12 prints, tipped-in to a Japanese album, of the set “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Suikoden”. Second edition published by Ibaya Sensaburo c 1845. Very rare complete. Robinson, Kuniyoshi ( 1982 ) S3.

Good to very good impressions. Very good colour. Some slight trimming, otherwise very good condition. Each sheet signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

A triptych showing Tawara Toda Hidesato riding a giant turtle and escorted by a multitude of fish, crabs, lobsters and octopuses. He is being led away from the Palace of the Dragon King, who he has helped by killing, with an arrow, the terrible centipede, Mukade. The Dragon King ( Ryujin ) rewards him with a roll of silk which could not be shortened by cutting; a bag of rice which could not be exhausted; a cooking pot which would cook food without fire, and a great bronze bell. ( This is the bell that Hidesato presents to the monastery of Miidera from whence it was later stolen by Benkei. ) Published by Maruya Kyushiro, 1858.

Extremely fine, early impression with fine colour. Very slight trimming to first sheet, otherwise fine condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Tokiwa Gozen taking flight from the village of Ryumon into the snowy Yoshino mountains. She flees with her three children. From the set: Kenjo reppuden, “Stories of Wise and Virtuous Women”. Published by Ibaya Sensaburo c1841-2. First state with bokashi above. The best design from the set and often reproduced.

Very good impression and colour. Light album backing. Very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Shows Ono no Komachi ( one of the Six Poets ) praying for rain. Title label reads: Ama koi Komachi. This is one of various presentments of Komachi’s known as the Seven Komachi. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon ( the same publisher as for the Suikoden ), c1837. A rare print not previously recorded by me.

Very good impression and colour. Small backed wormhole top right, otherwise very good condition. Full size. Signed Cho-o-ro Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Chusenko Teitokuson raises his sword with both hands in order to plunge it into the head of a giant snake. From Kuniyoshi’s finest warrior set: “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Suikoden, One by One”. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon c1827-1830. One of the finest designs from the series.

Fine impression of first edition. Very good colour. Fine condition and completely untrimmed: Designs from this set are notoriously difficult to find untrimmed due to them being on slightly larger sheets of hosho than normal. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

A heavily muscled and tattooed Roshi Ensei, one foot on the head of an adversary, lifts a huge beam. From Kuniyoshi’s finest warrior set: “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Suikoden, One by One”. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon c1827-1830. One of the finest designs from the series.

Fine impression of first edition. Very good colour. Fine condition and completely untrimmed: Designs from this set are notoriously difficult to find untrimmed due to them being on slightly larger sheets of hosho than normal. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

On a river bank a heavily tattooed Senkaji Choo is about to slay the enemy general Hotentei. Above him a supernatural flame plays over the rushing water. From Kuniyoshi’s finest warrior set: “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Suikoden, One by One”. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon c1827-1830. One of the finest designs from the series.

Fine impression of first edition. Very good colour. Fine condition and completely untrimmed: Designs from this set are notoriously difficult to find untrimmed due to them being on slightly larger sheets of hosho than normal. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

A night scene with Kojoso Jisen leaning down from a tree and shining a large lantern over a wall. From Kuniyoshi’s finest warrior set: “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Suikoden, One by One”. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon c1827-1830. One of the finest designs from the series.

Fine impression of first edition. Very good colour. Fine condition and completely untrimmed: Designs from this set are notoriously difficult to find untrimmed due to them being on slightly larger sheets of hosho than normal. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

A heavily tattooed Konkoryu Rishun heaves an adversary over his shoulders into a boat while floating in the sea. From Kuniyoshi’s finest warrior set: “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Suikoden, One by One”. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon c1827-1830. One of the finest designs from the series

Fine impression of first edition. Very good colour. Fine condition and completely untrimmed: Designs from this set are notoriously difficult to find untrimmed due to them being on slightly larger sheets of hosho than normal. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Rurihakucho Chojun, half-naked and tattooed with a sword between his teeth, forces apart the bars of a water-gate. From Kuniyoshi’s finest warrior set: “The Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Suikoden, One by One”. Published by Kaga-ya Kichiyemon c1827-1830. One of the finest designs from the series.

Fine impression of first edition. Very good colour. Fine condition and completely untrimmed: Designs from this set are notoriously difficult to find untrimmed due to them being on slightly larger sheets of hosho than normal. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Two foes grappling underwater – possibly Tammeijiro Genshogo and an armoured foeman. From a series ( ? ) enigmatically titled Tosei nama ningyo, “Living Dolls in Modern Days”. Perhaps these are quite literally dolls. Published by Hori Takichi, Dragon 2 ( 1856 ). Not recorded by Robinson.

Fine impression and colour. Bottom right corner repaired, otherwise fine condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

The Monkey battles Kinkaku Daio on a sea cliff from Tsuzoku saiyuki. Published by Fukura  2/1865. A rare set

Very good impression and colour. Untrimmed with green border intact. Minor marks, otherwise very good condition. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi ga.

          status: available

Utagawa SADAHIDE (1807-1873)

The battle at Rokuhara in the Taihei war chronicles: Kasunoki Masashige and Ashikaga Takauji who wheeled his troops round on Rokuhara the Hojo headquarters defending Kyoto. Published 1859.

Superb impression, colour and condition. Signed Sadahide ga and Gountei Sadahide ga.

status: available

Ichieisai YOSHITSUYA (active mid-19^th century)

A triptych with title: Ryozoku shinzan yojutsu kurabe no zu, “A Picture of the Two Enemies in a Witchcraft Match in the Deep Mountain”. Shows Hakamadare Yasusuke and Kidomaru fighting with magic. Yoshitoshi designed a vertical diptych of the same subject in 1887. Published  1860 by Tsutaya Kichizo. A wonderful design.

Very good impression and colour. Slight trimming and  minor corner defects, otherwise very good condition. Signed  Ichieisai  Yoshitsuya.

Utagawa KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Makibashira. Sagi-no-ike Heikuro wrestling a giant python in the mountains from the set: Japanese and Chinese Comparisons for the Chapters of Genji. Robinson S88.31. Published by Ise-Yoshi, 1855-56. One of Kuniyoshi’s finest designs.

Very fine impression of the first edition. Mica on the python. Perfect colour. Margins slightly trimmed but otherwise fine. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Taiso YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

A fireman from the set: Ohoono daiku matoi, A Mirror of Fireman's Standards in Each of the Precincts of Tokyo. Probably a set of 10 prints published by Okura Magobei, 10/1876. It is not known why this set is so rare, given that firemen were widely admired and on a par with sumo wrestlers and actors. Each fireman holds his standard; his padded clothes were soaked before a fire.

Fine impression, colour and condition. Signed Oju Yoshitoshi hitsu

status: sold

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

A rare triptych showing the fight between Ushiwaka Maru ( Yoshitsune ) and Benkei on  Gojo Bridge in 1170. One of Kuniyshi’s finest designs. Published by Fujioka-ya Hikotaro c 1840.

Very good impression: First edition with the strong gradation on the wooden pillars of the bridge. Very good colour. Minor soil and other small marks, but generally very good condition. Signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga.

Ichiyusai KUNIYOSHI (1797-1861)

Takeda Sama-no-suke Nobushige from the set Koetsu yusho den “ Stories of Courageous Warriors from the Koetsu Region”. Shows Nobushige enveloped in a cloud of battle smoke. One of the two best designs from the set. Published by Sumiyoshi-ya Masagoro c1848-9.