Woodblock Printed Surimono in Original Paper Sleeve by Art Dealer Eikichi Kumegawa of Kobe
[Japan] This is just the kind of item we love at Bakumatsuya. Japanese woodblock printed surimono in their original, decorative sleeve. Usually surimono (aka settan) were commissioned by the patrons of artists or were used at poetry contests. In many cases, the prints were of a quality higher than usual for woodblock prints as many were embossed and had other luxurious touches such as mica added. The artists of the 23 prints include Gakutei Harunobu, Katsushika Hokuun, Yanagawa Shigenobu, Totoya Hokkei, and Utagawa Kuninao. The sleeve has the Japanese address of Kumegawa printed along with a template dated Meiji with space for the year, month, and day to be written so we believe this is mid to late Meiji (c1890).
Hyogo (Kobe). Eikichi Kumegawa. c1890.
The sleeve measures approx. 24.5 x 20cm and the surimono prints are each approx. 21.5 x 18.1cm.
The prints are in very good to fine condition. The paper sleeve is worn and creased at the top and on the rear. e34101274
