Daily life and traditions
KUNISADA II Utagawa
FICHE 13056
(1823 - 1880)
Tamakazura [lady adopted by Genji]
Woodcut in colours
1857
Impression on Japan paper, from the series Lady Murasaki's Genji Cards (Murasaki Shikibu Genji karuta), signed Baichôrô Kunisada ga in toshidama cartouches. Censor's seals aratame, snake 1.
The Tale of the Genji or Genji Monogatari, written in the 11th century by Murasaki Shikibu, a court lady, is Japan's oldest novel and possibly the first novel in world literature. The classic of Japanese literature, the work describes the life and loves of Prince Genji and is noted for its rich characterisation and vivid descriptions of life in the Japanese imperial court.
Sheet: vertical oban (345 x 240 mm.)
Reference: a proof is preserved in the MFA of Boston.
Condition: good.
