The Spirit of the Wine (Shuten Doji)

by Tamamura Hokuto (1893 - 1951)

Current Status

The Spirit of the Wine (Shuten Doji) by Tamamura Hokuto (1893 - 1951)

Original Tamamura Hokuto (1893 - 1951) Japanese Woodblock Print
The Spirit of the Wine (Shuten Doji)

Series; The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Monzaemon, First Edition, circa 1922 - 1926

The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon - Published between 1922 and 1926, "The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon" illustrates the works of the famous playwright Chikamatsu Manzaemon (1653 - 1725), considered one of Japan's greatest dramatists. He authored more than 100 plays, mainly for the bunraku puppet theater, including historical romances and domestic tragedies, often based on true events. Many of these popular tales were adapted for kabuki theater and are still performed today.

This beautiful series consists of 18 prints by leading artists of the Taisho era, including two important female painters, Shima Seien (1892-1970) and Uemura Shoen (1875-1949).  From mysterious ghosts and poignant beauties to fierce deities and heroic warriors, each illustrates one of Chikamatsu's most memorable characters. Exquisitely carved by Yamagishi Kazue and expertly printed by Nishimura Kumakichi, many include deluxe printing techniques such as embossing, metallic flecks, mica, and hand-applied gofun pigment.

We are excited to offer an incredible group of prints from "The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon," including the most desirable and sought-after designs. Considered one of the greatest Japanese shin-hanga series, these fantastic first edition designs are a wonderful choice for a collector. We've seen images from this series offered elsewhere online for more than $1,500. Don't miss this opportunity to collect a beautiful, first edition print from this timeless and treasured series. 

The Spirit of the Wine (Shuten Doji) - Incredible design from the legendary tale of the Demon of Oeyama, the horrible Shuten Doji, who kidnapped young beauties and held them hostage in his lair on Mt. Oe near Kyoto. The great warrior Minamoto no Yorimitsu (Raiko) and his men traveled to the demon's hideout in order to kill him. After lulling him into a drunken stupor with plenty of wine, Raiko cut off the monster's head with his sword, but head took on a life of its own. The horned demon's head flies through the air, spurting blood and trailing smoke as the warrior stands at right, still gripping his weapon. The frightened beauties cower below, hiding under their kimono. A dramatic print and a favorite from the Chikamatsu series, detailed with subtle gold mica on the demon's horns, hair and elements of the kimono on the right - fantastic!

Artist - Tamamura Hokuto (1893 - 1951)

Image Size - 10 5/8" x 15 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Horizontal centerfold. Slight toning, creasing, and soiling. Some prints a few stains or spots. A few prints have small losses at corners, a couple holes or small tears at edges. Please see photos for details. Generally in good condition overall.

The Spirit of the Wine (Shuten Doji) by Tamamura Hokuto (1893 - 1951)
The Spirit of the Wine (Shuten Doji) by Tamamura Hokuto (1893 - 1951)

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