Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) - Mid 19thC Japanese Woodblock Meeting Of Geisha

Description

A fine example of Utagawa Kuniyoshi's traditional ukiyo-e woodblocks, showing a meeting of many geisha. They kneel in groups of the blue floor surrounded by torches and elaborately painted screens. The laugh and whisper to each other, two geisha in the foreground lean close to one another and conspiratorially point to something out of view. The artist's signature can be seen the traditional red gourd cartouche to the left. The woodblock has been presented in a black card mount. On pith paper.

Condition

The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some discolouration. Small tear to the upper left corner and the frame has some minor splitting at the corners.

Size

33.7 x 22.9cm (13.3" x 9")
Sheet: 44.2 x 31.9cm (17.4" x 12.6")
Framed Size: 45 x 33cm (17.7" x 13")

Artist Biography

Utagawa Kuniyoshi (January 1, 1798– April 14, 1861) was one of the last great masters of the Japanese ukiyo-e style of woodblock prints and painting. He was a member of the Utagawa school.

The range of Kuniyoshi's subjects included many genres: landscapes, beautiful women, Kabuki actors, cats, and mythical animals. He is known for depictions of the battles of legendary samurai heroes. His artwork incorporated aspects of Western representation in landscape painting and caricature.