Yoshitora Utagawa (Japanese, active 1830-1880). "The Great Battle of Dan'noura" woodblock (triptych), Edo period, 1861. Marks: censor's seal aratame. A striking woodblock triptych by Yoshitora Utagawa depicting one of the most famous conflicts in Japanese history, the Great Battle of Dan'noura which ended the Genpei war between the Minamoto and the Taira during the 12th century. The three woodblocks are delineated in classic ukiyo'e style featuring characteristic birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues that are hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. An impressive composition set in a custom frame under glass. Size of sight view: 13.5" L x 29.25" W (34.3 cm x 74.3 cm) Size of frame: 19.375" L x 40.625" W (49.2 cm x 103.2 cm)
Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century Japanese woodblock techniques had evolved, and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period was 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 such as the Battle of Dan-no-Ura. Woodblocks like Yoshitora Utagawa's 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.
Exhibition/collection label on gallery paper on verso
Provenance: private Wabasha, Minnesota, USA collection; ex-Nancy and Dr. E.F. Simpson collection, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from 1970 to 2000
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#171896
Condition
Woodblock triptych has not been examined outside the frame. Appears to have normal wear with a few crease marks and some fading commensurate with age. There is an old exhibition/collection label on the gallery paper on verso that reads: "#149. YOSHITORA (1850-1880) / "BATTLE OF DAN-NO-URA" / Censor Seal: ARATAME (1861) / Condition: Very good / Triptych". Minor age wear to the frame finish as shown.