Sumo Prints - The ancient sport of Japanese sumo wrestling proved a popular subject for woodblock print artists during the Edo and Meiji eras. Portraits of individual champion wrestlers often depict them during the ring entering ceremony, wearing a ceremonial belt that opens into an apron trimmed with fringed. Other designs show the athletes in action during matches, with the referee and judges present in front of crowds of other sumo and enthusiastic patrons. Matches were sometimes held on the grounds of a temple to raise funds for the temple, with temporary arenas erected for the event. These interesting prints are a nice choice for a collector interested in this classic Japanese sport.
Comments - Terrific triptych depicting the most famous Meiji era sumo Hitachiyama Taniemon and Umegatani Totaro II during a match. A great rivalry developed between the pair, leading to what's known as the "Ume-Hitachi" era, and bringing great popularity to the sport of sumo during the Meiji period. At left, Hitachiyama leans forward, gripping his opponent by the shoulder. Umegatani pushes back, taking hold of his adversary by the elbow. Bulging with muscles, their large frames fill the picture, the fringe of their loincloths swinging as they move. The referee Kimura Shounosuke XVI watches with a concerned expression at left, holding his fan upright, while Ikazuchi stable master and yokuzuna Omegatani Totaro I sits on a red cushion at right. A dynamic design. Includes metallic silver pigment on the referee's fan.
Artist - Gyokuha (Tamanami) (active circa 1900 - 1920)
Image Size - 14" x 28 3/8" + margins as shown
Condition - Nice color and detail. Horizontal folds. Light creasing throughout.
