100 Aspects of the Moon # 10 by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

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

Woodblock Prints Title: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon # 10 Moon of Pure Snow at Asano River

1st Publication: December 1885

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

Date of this edition: December 1885, 1st Edition

Publisher: Akiyama Buemon

Condition: The dark blue/ Purple color was not printed. Mild fading and soiling. Thin backing. Very good overall condition.

More about this print: The girl plunging into the icy Asano River with her hands clasped in prayer is Chikako. She hopes that her suicide will persuade government officials to release her father, Zeniya Gohei (1773-1855), from prison. However, her sacrifice fails to impress the authorities, and her father eventually dies in prison.

Two startled cranes, often seen as a symbol of justice and longevity, are fleeing from the scene. Together with the reeds they form an essential part of the beautiful triangular design.

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.