100 Aspects of the Moon # 56 by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Artist: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (Taiso) (1839-1892)

Woodblock Prints Title: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon # 56 Gen’i viewing the moon from his castle

1st Publication: June 1887

Size: Oban; 13-1/2" x 9-1/4" (34 x 23.5 cm)

Date of this edition: June 1887

Publisher: Akiyama Buemon.

Condition: Little remnants from prior mounting, else very fine. Excellent colors, impression, and overall condition.

More about this print: Gen'i (Maeda no Munehisa, 1536-1602) was a wise priest and shrewd politician, who had a successful career despite the complications of the civil war. Here he is seen reclining on the veranda of Kameyama Castle in Tamba Province, where he may be reflecting on the material world that is clouding the Buddha nature. His poem reads: “Usually I dislike a cloudy sky - tonight I realize that it makes me appreciate the light of the moon.”

Pictures: Pictures are taken outdoor, in the shade, to reflect true colors, without any enhancements of any kind. The last picture is taken indoor, with a light behind the print, to reveal the exact paper grain, holes if any, or other possible flaws.