Artist: Utagawa Kunisada
Title: CH29- The Royal Outing Miuki — 行幸
Date: 1857
Details: More information...
Source:
Japanese Art Open Database
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Description:
Chapter #29, The Royal Outing (Miuki) 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. Chapter #29, The Royal Outing (Miuki)- Prince Genji and a young beauty relax in a garden setting enjoying a day out. The huge palanquin in the rear was used to travel by wealthy individuals of Genji’s class. Signed- Kunisada ga; with title- Miuki Publisher’s seal- Tsutaya Kichizo Dated- 1854Censor’s seal- aratame Image size- 9 1/4” x 13” (oban tate-e)
