Utagawa TOYOKUNI II (TOYOSHIGE) (1777-1835)
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Meisho hakkei: Oyama yau, “Eight Celebrated Views: Night Rain at Oyama” in the oblong title cartouche and written below it: Juzan Fudo yori chojo no zu, “View of the Peak from Fudo.” Shows Mount Oyama in heavy rain with the Oyama-dera Temple dedicated to the Buddhist deity Fudo Myoo. Mount Fuji is seen in the distance. The “Eight Views” theme originates from 11th century China and the scenery of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers made famous by the scholar-painter Song Di. Here Toyokuni sets the views in Kanagawa. Published by Iseya Rihei (Kinjudo) c early 1830s. There are two editions of this set: one with regular block script in title cartouche, the other with cursive script (as here). Is in unclear which is the earliest. Cursive script is extremely difficult to read now but in 1830 it was no problem; certainly, with this design, the cursive script edition has superior gradation. However, comparison between editions on some other designs in the set show them to be almost identical, consequently it seems that the two states are almost contemporaneous and which is earlier is a moot point. One of the great 19th century landscapes.Fine impression. Fine colour with the title cartouche still retaining some purple which is famous for fading to a puce colour. Slight centre fold, otherwise very good condition. Signed Toyokuni hitsu.
Status: Sold