UTAGAWA KUNISADA 歌川国貞 ALSO KNOWN AS UTAGAWA TOYOKUNI III 三代 歌川豊国 (JAPAN, 1786-1865) Gust of wind - The Tale of Genji - Chapter 38: Suzumushi (Singing Cricket ) Oban yoko-e woodblock print From the series Sono Sugata Murasaki no Utsushi-e (or Sonosugata Yukai no Utsushie) Censor seals: Kinugata and Murata Editor: Izumiya Ichibei 23,2 x 34,5 cm Notes: 1. Prince Genji and a young samurai are on a balcony in front. 2. The Tale of Genji (源氏物語 - Genji Monogatari), pronounced is a classic work of Japanese literature written in the early 11th century by the noblewoman and lady-in-waiting Murasaki Shikibu. This work is a unique depiction of the lifestyles of high courtiers during the Heian period. It recounts the life of Hikaru Genji, or ‘Shining Genji’, who is the son of an ancient Japanese emperor (known to readers as Emperor Kiritsubo) and a low-ranking concubine called Kiritsubo Consort. For political reasons, the emperor removes Genji from the line of succession, demoting him to a commoner by giving him the surname Minamoto, and he pursues a career as an imperial officer. The tale concentrates on Genji's romantic life and describes the customs of the aristocratic society of the time. It may be the world's first novel, regarded as a ‘Classic’. 3. Compared with a related print preserved at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) of Boston, USA, under accession number 11.15606. Click HERE to see the related print. NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.