Yanagawa SHIGENOBU (1787-1833)
Click here to view image full size.
An original painting by this artist who was the pupil and then son-in-law of Hokusai. He was given the name Yanagawa (from his residence in the Honjo district of Edo) to distinguish him from other Shigenobu artists. A good book illustrator and surimono designer. He designed the first square surimono in Osaka in 1822, inspiring others to follow. His paintings are rare. Shows a portrait of the Japanese scholar and writer Ishikawa Masamochi (1754-1830). The fifth son of Ishikawa Toyonobu, he was a renowned kyoka poet and Gesaku writer (playful, mocking works), including The Magical Carpenter of Japan. An important figure in kyoka/surimono circles. Known as Rokujuen (Yadao no Meshimori). His family crest is seen on his kimono and he sits before a low desk ready to write. A high quality painting, sumi and colour on silk, 29 x 12.5 in.; 73.6 x 31.8 cms. Several small backed wormholes at bottom, otherwise very good condition. Would benefit from being remounted.
Signed Shigenobu with seal Yanagawa.
Status: Available
Yanagawa SHIGENOBU (1787-1832)
Click here to view image full size.
A European couple in flagrante from a set Yanagi no arashi, “Storm of Willows” published c 1832. This highly unusual shunga print with chiaroscuro modelling is obviously based on imported woodcuts and engravings from Europe. There also exist several other shunga prints showing Dutchmen. See Shunga sex and pleasure in Japanese art, Timothy Clark et al, BM, 2013, no 120, p. 402.
Very good impression, colour and condition. Mica applied to the vulva. The set is unsigned but generally accepted as being by Shigenobu.
Status: Sold