Rare Edo-Period Toy Shunga (shikake-e) Woodblock Print Set with Original Ukiyo-e Envelope Case
Artist: of the Utagawa School (c.1850)
Title of Print Set, as stated on the accompanying ukiyo-e envelope:  Live Doll (Nama Ningyō)
Condition: Exceptional!  Vibrant colors and clean details with minimal signs of age.  It is not only nearly impossible to come across an entire set of toy prints from the Edo Period with their original casing, but to be in such stellar condition as well is a true rarity and exquisite find!
 
This illustrious set of three shikake-e (interactive shunga toy/trick prints) represents the playful ingenuity of Edo-period Japanese erotic art.  Crafted by an artist of the famed Utagawa School, these prints are vibrant, intricately detailed, and remarkably well-preserved.  Interactive flaps conceal and reveal hidden elements (their genitalia), adding a tactile layer of amusing fun and storytelling to the already stunning compositions.
 
Accompanying the prints is their original ukiyo-e envelope case, an extremely rare feature that elevates the historical and collector's value of the set.  The case is beautifully adorned with period-appropriate designs and inscriptions, in this case a tombstone inscribed with the playful title of the print set.  Next to the tombstone is an interesting phallus-shaped stone, providing a playful connotation of the erotic subject matter and its contents.  The craftsmanship and care that went into this work is impeccable!
 
Dimensions:
Prints: 12 cm x 9 cm each, with the ukiyo-e casing being just slightly larger (please see from photos provided).
 
Erotic Poem:  Here is a translation for one of the playful, erotic poems on the back of each toy picture:
"The pleasures of sensual play,
Gathering snacks one by one,
A sight to savor in secrecy.
Beneath the waves lies the mystery,
Revealed softly as the night deepens."
The "gathering snacks" may metaphorically reference the intimate actions depicted in the art.
 
Provenance and Rarity:
Complete sets of shikake-e prints with their original envelope cases are incredibly rare, especially in such pristine condition.  This lot is a museum-quality artifact, ideal for serious collectors of Japanese antique art, ukiyo-e, or erotica.  Add this unique treasure to your collection today - an exceptional example of Japanese Edo-period creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage!