Kunichika -- "Spirit of the Cherry Tree"

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Title "Spirit of the Cherry Tree"
Date 1897 February
Series na
Publisher Yamamoto Yoichi
Seal, Carver/Printer na
Image Size 14 x 27 3/4
Impression Very Fine.
Skillfully executed "bokashi" shading throughout print; nicely visible "woodgrain" to background; "gauffrage" (embossing) to white collar; highly detailed carving, crisp lines.
Condition Very Good to Nearly Excellent.
Excellent colors.
Three panels--attached, unbacked.
(Slight creasing left panel; few minor stains, scattered marks; light wear.)
Reference/Illus "Kunichika--Time Present and Time Past, Images of a Forgotten Master" Pl #124.
Comments Wonderfully colored scene from the kabuki play "The Snowbound Barrier of Love" as guard Sekibei (Ichikawa Danjuro IX)--about to chop down a cherry tree--recoils upon the sight of courtesan Sumizome who has suddenly appeared as the "spirit" of the cherry tree.
Item # FG-094
Price $475