East Asia, Japan, 19th century (probably late Edo Period). Four framed Japanese woodblock prints including (clockwise from upper left): (1) A samurai with red background by Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900) (2) A partial group of a famous assemblage of samurai known as the 47 Ronin Samurai by Utagawa Toyokuni III (also Kunisada - Japanese, 1786-1865)(3) Scene of man with pipe viewing the moon by Utagawa Kuniyoshi (Japanese, 1797-1861). Publisher Enshuya Matabei. "Maisaka Station: Kezori Kuemon, from the series "Fifty-three Pairings for the Tokaido Road" jointly designed by Hiroshige, Kunisada, and Kuniyoshi. Ca. 1845-46. (4) A scene of woman with lantern and flowers by Utagawa Toyokuni III (also Kunisada - Japanese, 1786-1865). Size of Kuniyoshi: 14" L x 9" W (35.6 cm x 22.9 cm) Size of Yuniyoshi w/ frame: 23.5" L x 17.625" W (59.7 cm x 44.8 cm)

Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century, Japanese woodblock techniques evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time, the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. Ukiyo-e prints were known for birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues - all hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as the examples featured in this lot played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonism exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, and pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec.

Provenance: private Monument, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1950s

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#167795

These prints have not been examined outside the frames but they appear to be in very good condition. Imagery and colors are very nice. Scuffs/chips to frames as shown. Glass is intact. All are fitted with suspension wires and ready to be displayed.