832243

Complete Set of Historical, Rare Gekko's #832243

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Asian Antiques Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
Complete Set of Historical, Rare Gekko's #832243
<table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4"><tr><td><em> It is rare to find an item from Japan of such historical and cultural significance at such a relatively affordable price.</em></td></tr><tr> <td width="100%"> Outside of the set in the Smithsonian, this is the only complete set of this historically important and exceedingly rare series from 1899 by Japan's first artist to receive international acclaim, Ogata Gekko (1859-1920). In fact, this set includes the only known copy of the title page for this series, something that even the Smithsonian's set lacks, which may explain why they have mis-titled the series, 12 Kacho, which means 12 Bird and Flower prints. This signature series of 13 (12 plus title page) woodblock prints by Gekko was the only one in which he incorporated his name into the series title, Gekko Gahou, which means Gekko's Artwork. This certainly indicates the pride he felt in this series, and is a confident declaration from a mature artist that ukiyo, the floating world, may be ephemeral, but this art that bears his name is for the ages. At the same time, though he was one of Japan's greatest artists, he displayed a sense of humor throughout his work, and a willingness to poke fun even at himself is evident here in the satirical self-portrait of the artist as a monkey in an artist's smock. In addition to being the only complete set, these are the finest surviving examples of each print in this series. You will not find any of these individual prints in better condition. 14 x 9.5 inches, 35.5 x 24 cm. This is likely the last time you will see an item from Japan of such important cultural and historical significance being offered at a relatively affordable price. </td></tr><tr> <td> </td></tr><tr> <td>Reference #: 103ja</td></tr><tr><td>Condition:Fine to Excellent</td></tr><tr><td>Year:1899</td></tr><tr><td>Title:Complete Set of Historical, Rare Gekko's</td></tr><tr><td>Location:New York City</td></tr></table>