UTAGAWA KUNISADA (1786-1865) WOODBLOCK PRINT, IZUMO TAISHA SHINTO MYTHOLOGY, 18IN x 21IN (46cm x
A captivating Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada (1786?1865), featuring a richly detailed depiction of Shinto mythology, divine figures, and the sacred traditions associated with Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's most historically important shrines. The composition presents an extraordinary gathering of elaborately costumed figures within a traditional Japanese architectural setting. A series of individually identified deities and attendants engage in a lively scene filled with symbolic objects, ceremonial garments, baskets, scrolls, and intricately rendered interior details. Dominating the upper right portion is a dramatic vertical cartouche reading Izumo no Kuni Taisha Hyakushin, referring to the gathering of numerous deities at the Great Shrine of Izumo. The imagery evokes the rich spiritual and folkloric traditions of Japan, where the Shinto gods are believed to assemble at Izumo during the sacred month of Kamiarizuki. The composition is distinguished by its animated storytelling, expressive figures, and sophisticated use of indigo blue, muted vermilion, soft coral, ivory, and charcoal. Delicate architectural lines, detailed textiles, and finely articulated Japanese inscriptions give the work the visual complexity prized by collectors of traditional ukiyo-e. The reverse of the print exhibits visible impressions of the composition through the paper, together with an old handwritten notation, offering additional evidence of its history and traditional printed format. Japanese artist and publisher inscriptions are visible within the design. This piece is double matted and framed under acrylic in a golden frame. With frame, it measures 18 inches x 21 inches. This piece was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.
Condition
Excellent
Dimensions
18 x 21 x 1 in
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
A captivating Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada (1786?1865), featuring a richly detailed depiction of Shinto mythology, divine figures, and the sacred traditions associated with Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's most historically important shrines. The composition presents an extraordinary gathering of elaborately costumed figures within a traditional Japanese architectural setting. A series of individually identified deities and attendants engage in a lively scene filled with symbolic objects, ceremonial garments, baskets, scrolls, and intricately rendered interior details. Dominating the upper right portion is a dramatic vertical cartouche reading Izumo no Kuni Taisha Hyakushin, referring to the gathering of numerous deities at the Great Shrine of Izumo. The imagery evokes the rich spiritual and folkloric traditions of Japan, where the Shinto gods are believed to assemble at Izumo during the sacred month of Kamiarizuki. The composition is distinguished by its animated storytelling, expressive figures, and sophisticated use of indigo blue, muted vermilion, soft coral, ivory, and charcoal. Delicate architectural lines, detailed textiles, and finely articulated Japanese inscriptions give the work the visual complexity prized by collectors of traditional ukiyo-e. The reverse of the print exhibits visible impressions of the composition through the paper, together with an old handwritten notation, offering additional evidence of its history and traditional printed format. Japanese artist and publisher inscriptions are visible within the design. This piece is double matted and framed under acrylic in a golden frame. With frame, it measures 18 inches x 21 inches. This piece was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.
Condition
Excellent
Dimensions
18 x 21 x 1 in
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
