RARE ORIGINAL KEISAI EISEN (1790?1848) EDO PERIOD UKIYO-E WOODBLOCK PRINT, VERTICAL DIPTYCH

拍品描述

An exceptionally rare and visually arresting original Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print by celebrated Edo-period master Keisai Eisen (1790?1848), depicting a magnificent high-ranking courtesan adorned with an elaborate coiffure of ornamental hairpins and wearing a sumptuous robe decorated with flowering branches, exotic birds, and seasonal blossoms. Executed in the highly desirable kakemono-e (vertical diptych) format, this dramatic composition reflects the refined elegance and artistic sophistication that established Eisen as one of the foremost designers of bijin-ga ("pictures of beautiful women") during the golden age of Japanese woodblock printing. Works of this scale were intended to emulate the appearance of hanging scroll paintings and are considerably less common than standard oban-format prints encountered on today's market. The courtesan's luxurious robe is rendered in an extraordinary palette dominated by rich blues and delicate floral ornamentation, while the composition is animated by beautifully observed birds perched among flowering branches. The combination of feminine beauty, seasonal symbolism, and decorative richness represents the height of late Edo-period taste and remains highly sought after by collectors worldwide. The print bears Eisen's signature and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from Michael C. Teller IV of TK Asian Antiquities, identifying the work as an original Keisai Eisen vertical diptych (kakemono-e) depicting a high-ranking courtesan. Teller is widely recognized for his scholarship and expertise in Asian art and Japanese prints. Unlike many ukiyo-e works that survive only in institutional collections, this example retains remarkable decorative presence and display appeal. The sheet without frame measures approximately 9.5 inches x 28.75 inches. Evidence of age, toning, historic mounting, folds, and wear are consistent with an authentic nineteenth-century impression and contribute to its historical character. Today, original Eisen prints are represented in major museum collections throughout the world and remain among the most collected works of the ukiyo-e tradition. This example offers a rare opportunity to acquire an original Edo-period woodblock print by one of Japan's most celebrated masters, combining artistic importance, historical significance, and exceptional visual impact. Acquired from TK Asian Antiquities. This piece is double matted and framed under acrylic in a silver toned frame. With frame, this piece measures 18 inches x 36 inches.

图片