When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print designed by Utagawa Kunisada (also known as Toyokuni III, 1786–1865).
Artwork Details: Modern World: Chiyo\'s Enjoyment (Tosei: Chiyo no tanoshimi)
Date: Circa mid-1830s
Format: Oban tate-e (vertical print, approximately 14.5 x 10 inches)
Subject: This piece comes from a rare thematic series that pairs contemporary beauties (bijin) with the spirit of the famous female Edo-period poet, Kaga no Chiyo (Fukuda Chiyo-ni).
Composition: A weary beauty slumped against a structural post on a wooden verandah corner. She has her legs drawn close to her body while her patterned blue kimono loosely falls open at the knees. Willow branches and snowfall can be seen framing the top of the scene.
Inscriptions: The red circular cartouche at the upper left contains the series title Tosei (Modern World) under a snow-covered cap.
Signatures & Markings: The lower right area contains the artist\'s signature reading Gototei Kunisada ga, accompanied by a Kiwame (approved) censor seal and the publisher mark for Aritaya Seiemon.
Print is in good condition with some blemishes and staining and a small missing piece along the left side about a quarter of the way down. Frame has some blemishes and a small crack/missing wood along the lower left hand corner. Please look closely at the pictures to make your own assessment of condition.
