Title : CH20- The Morning Glory Asagao — 朝かほ

Artist : Utagawa Kunisada

Date : 1857

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Source : Japanese Art Open Database
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Description : Kunisada’s Illustration of the Tale of Genji Chapter #20, The Morning Glory (Asagau) Original 1854 woodblock print published by Tsutaya Kichizo Kunisada II (1823 ? 1880) Chapter #20, The Morning Glory (Asagau) Kunisada’s illustrations of the Tale of Genji- The Tale of Genji is considered the world’ oldest novel. Written by Murasaki Shikibu a woman of the Heian period (11th century Japan) it chronicles the life of Genji. Lady Murasaki’s lavish novel is a masterwork of Japanese literature. Kunisada’s wonderful 19th century woodblock prints of each chapter of the novel continued a tradition illustrating Murasaki’s work. The present print is an original 19th century woodblock of Kunisada’s incredible complete illustration series. The prints were designed and printed in 1854. The publisher used the highest quality paper and inks for this special Kunisada series. Each print is identified by the “Genji mon” that marks every chapter. The “Genji mon” and title are located in a unique cartouche in the shape of an opened clamshell. Each print has a lovely speckled border as the margin, printed in a lively pattern of random geometric shapes. The colors are rich and the detail is exquisite. Kunisada’s illustrations of Genji are a wonderful opportunity to collect an original 19th century Japanese woodblock print that has real meaning and a wonderful story behind it. They are beautiful Japanese antiques that make for a stunning display on the wall. A great opportunity to add a Japanese treasure to your interior. Chapter #20, The Morning Glory (Asagau)- Genji and a beautiful woman in an interior setting. Outside, snow falls over a classic garden, water beyond. Beautiful detail in the room and on the figures kimonos- fantastic. Signed- Kunisada ga; with title- Asagau Publisher’s seal- Tsutaya Kichizo Dated- 1854Censor’s seal- aratame Image size- 9 1/4” x 13” (oban tate-e)

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