<b>HERON MAIDEN</b> / Kokyo Taniguchiyear$1,000</em>
ARTIST: Kokyo Taniguchi (1864-1915)
TITLE: Heron Maiden
MEDIUM: Woodblock print
DATE: Early 20th century
DIMENSIONS: 16 1/4 x 10 1/2 inches
CONDITION: Excellent, no condition problems to note
LITERATURE: Hamanaka, Shinji, Amy Reigle Newland, The Female Image, 20th Century Japanese Prints of Beauties, 2000, pl. 209
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$1,000.00
.
ARTIST: Kokyo Taniguchi (1864-1915)
TITLE: Heron Maiden
MEDIUM: Woodblock print
DATE: Early 20th century
DIMENSIONS: 16 1/4 x 10 1/2 inches
CONDITION: Excellent, no condition problems to note
LITERATURE: Hamanaka, Shinji, Amy Reigle Newland, The Female Image, 20th Century Japanese Prints of Beauties, 2000, pl. 209
.
$1,000.00
.
ARTIST: Kokyo Taniguchi (1864-1915)
TITLE: Heron Maiden
MEDIUM: Woodblock print
DATE: Early 20th century
DIMENSIONS: 16 1/4 x 10 1/2 inches
CONDITION: Excellent, no condition problems to note
LITERATURE: Hamanaka, Shinji, Amy Reigle Newland, The Female Image, 20th Century Japanese Prints of Beauties, 2000, pl. 209
.
$1,000.00
.
Details
In this popular design, Taniguchi presents the Heron Maiden from the popular kabuki play of the same name. This popular design brings to life the poignant tale of a woman consumed by unrequited love, her spirit intertwined with that of a majestic heron, effortlessly transitioning between human and avian forms. As the narrative unfolds, the Heron Maiden's heart-wrenching journey reaches its tragic conclusion, echoing the timeless themes of love and loss that resonate with audiences across generations.
In this design, Taniguchi presents the Heron Maiden with her paper umbrella, referring to the portion of the play where she performs an umbrella dance. The image is striking. Taniguchi instills a sense of mystery in his design by presenting the Heron Maiden with her face partly covered, perhaps suggesting the complexity and otherworldliness of her identity. The design is printed with subtlety and great care, as the woman’s entire kimono is embossed, highlighting a textile-like feel. The background is impressed with a beautiful wood grain pattern from the printing block, which contributes to the design’s moody and mysterious atmosphere.
Connoisseur's Note
This early impression is in a fine state of preservation with no conditions problems to note. The impression is razor-sharp with fine embossing throughout the woman’s kimono with a strong wood grain pattern visible in the background. This impression is an excellent printing of this fine design.