Utagawa TOYOKUNI II (TOYOSHIGE) (1777-1835)
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Meisho hakkei: Fuji bosetsu, “Eight Celebrated Views: Evening Snow on Mount Fuji” in the oblong title cartouche and written below it: Shimo Sengen atomiya nakamiya zenzu, “Complete View of the Inner and Middle Shrines at Shimo Sengen.” A majestic Fuji towers over the shrines. 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). It is unclear which is the earliest. Cursive script is extremely difficult to read now but in 1830 it was no problem. 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.
Fine impression and colour with colour in title cartouche well retained. Fine condition. Signed Toyokuni hitsu.
Status: Available
Price: £6,800