KUNISADA II Utagawa (1823 - 1880)

1857

Impression on Japan paper, plate 33 from the series Lady Murasaki's Genji Cards (Murasaki Shikibu Genji karuta), signed Baichôrô Kunisada ga in toshidama cartouches. Censor's seals aratame, snake 10.

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: some clear red mark in the image.