Lot 23
Torii Kiyosada (Japanese, 1844-1901). Publisher: Hasegawa Sumi. "Public Reading (Yomitate)" dating to Meiji era, ca. 1897. A vibrant woodblock print (nishiki-e) in ink and color on paper, by Torii Kiyosada and from the series "Annual Events of the Theater in Edo" - an ensemble of 25 prints that depicted the events occurring during a typical year in an Edo theater. As the eldest son of Torii Kiyomitsu II (1787-1868), Torii Kiyosada was the sixth generation in the Torii line following his father's death. He studied with Torii Kiyomine (17871869) as well as Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1862). As the manager of the Hisamatsu-za, a major Tokyo kabuki theater, Kiyosada was immersed in the Kabuki world which certainly informed his compositions. Size: 14" L x 9.25" W (35.6 cm x 23.5 cm)
Woodblock prints were used in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century Japanese wood block techniques evolved immensely, and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period and beyond. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. This example features the characteristic birds-eye view, penchant for strong line, and appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues that are hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as these played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonism exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, even pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec.
Provenance: Estate of William Stockton, Colorado, USA; acquired between July 20, 1966 and January 7, 1974 while Mr. Stockton was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. During this period he traveled primarily to Korea, but also to Japan, Vietnam, and other countries in Southeast Asia.
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#150825
- Condition: Normal toning to paper and there is some fading, but the image and inscriptions are still relatively strong. Set in open fronted mat.
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