Yoshitoshi - Mirror of Famous Generals

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi Susanoo no Mikoto and Inadahime Awaiting the Eight-headed Serpent, from the series 'Mirror of Famous Generals of Japan (Dai nippon meisho kagami)'. After putting out eight barrels of sake, Susanoo waited until the serpent was drunk, then killed it. The series features images of warriors from throughout Japan's history with accompanying text. A rare Yoshitoshi crepe paper print, Chirimen gami-e (縮緬紙), also known as “crepon”. Van  Gogh had 17 crepe prints in his ukiyo-e collection. This Meji-era technique involves using a type of crepe paper, to create beautiful textured prints. Woodblock prints were made at actual Oban size on the crepe paper, and then through an involved process of compression and dampening, the print shrinks in size, greatly concentrating the details and colors. These prints are all backed - which is good, since the paper material by itself is similar to a thin fabric and easily warped. Genre: Ukiyo-e, Chirmengami-e Size: 15.5cm x 21.5cm Date: 1880