1900 - Shunga - Mizuno Toshikata Deluxe Shunga - Sakura Shower
Authentic Meiji period, c.1900 original Japanese erotic art shunga woodblock print picture by Mizuno Toshikata (1866–1908). From a superb and complete series of 12 shunga designs, all currently available from Shunga Is Art.
Shunga picture measures 18.2 cm x 12.5 cm. Beautiful deluxe printing with mica embellishment and embossed details, adding both shimmer and texture to the design. Each of the 12 compositions is further distinguished by a separate Mount Fuji cartouche positioned above the erotic scene, providing a recurring visual motif that unifies the series. Virtually mint condition with excellent colors and impressions. No backing. Please refer to photos.
Mizuno Toshikata was one of the leading woodblock print artists of the Meiji period and a student of the great Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. Although particularly celebrated for his bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) and historical subjects, Toshikata also produced accomplished erotic work. This c.1900 series displays the refinement associated with his work: elegant figures, delicate coloration and luxurious use of mica and embossing.
A beautiful springtime shunga composition showing a couple making love outdoors as falling sakura petals drift down upon them. Their colorful robes and the shower of cherry blossoms give the intimate scene a wonderfully romantic and distinctly seasonal quality.
