"Illustration for a Book". Preparatory brush drawing, circa 1880, for an illustrated book in sumi with a red ink underdrawing, framed under glass. Preliminary image shows artist's compositional ideas first in red then in strengthened in black. Garden scene seems to depict two peasant figures. Image is unsigned. Paper measures apprx 5-3/4"H x 8"W. Verso has image information. In beige mat and gilt frame with rounded corners, entire item measures apprx 13-3/4"H x 16-1/2"W. Provenance: Private collection from Cambridge, MA; ex-collection of dealer Thomas French; then a prominent Cleveland, Ohio estate.
Taiso is generally considered the last great master of the traditional Ukiyo-e woodblock print tradition. Born in Edo, in 1839, his real name was Owariya Yonejiro. At the age of eleven, Yoshitoshi was enrolled as a student of the school of Kuniyoshi. In 1853 he experienced the opening of Japan to the West. The final years of Yoshitoshi life are considered his most prolific.
1,000/1,500 Sold $1,035.00
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