'Morning Song', Year of Water-Rabbit (1795) Beginning of Autumn
This print depicts a Courtesan relaxing, holding a fan as she sits beneath a trail of Morning Glories.  It is from a 1903-1906 Series, Shimbi Shoin's "Ukiyo-e Grand Anthology".  The original edition by Eishi dates to c1785.   This Meiji-era print series from the publisher Shimbi Shoin (1890-1936) is considered a 'crown jewel' of 175 ukiyo-e masterpieces.  Shimbi Shoin's spared no expense on this series, pioneering the use of  'end-grain carving' (in conjunction with usual 'plank-carving'), which reduced splintering and allowed these prints of astonishing detailing to be produced.  This print exhibits the 'end-grain carving' in the background presenting as if printed on wood.   The print measures 11.75" x 7.5", and the frame measures 18" x 14". It is matted in a veneer mat, with red bead accents and a black frame. It is in wonderful original condition.       P6032     $95.00