100 Aspects of the Moon # 22 by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

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

Woodblock Prints Title: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon # 22 Moon and Smoke (Enchu no tsuki)

1st Publication:February 1886

Size: 13-1/2" x 9" + Margins as shown

Date of this edition: January 1886, 1st Edition

Publisher: Akiyama Buemon

Condition: Very fine

More about this print: A fireman stands on a building holding the standard for the second district of Edo. He wears a sashiko, a padded coat soaked with water to protect him against the flames. In the lower right is another matoi (standard bearer) from a rival brigade. In 19th century Japan, crowded towns full of houses constructed of wood and paper were extremely vulnerable to fire. The fire-fighting troops were considered exciting and colorful characters, and enjoyed enormous prestige amongst the general population.

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.