Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, "Reading by the Moon"

A disciple of Confucious, Zi Luo is shown carrying a sack of rice to his parents while reading in the light of the full moon. By bringing the rice to his parents, he is demonstrating the importance of his filial duties. A wonderful and simple composition with embossing on rice sack.

Series: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon
Date: 1888
Size: Oban
Publisher: Akiyama Buemon
Condition: Excellent color and condition; unbacked
Frame Shown: 16" x 24", Classic Wood, Walnut

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's (1839-1892) Tsuki hyakushi (One Hundred Aspects of the Moon) series of woodblock prints make up some of Yoshitoshi's most recognizable and popular designs today. A number of highly influential compositions make up this series, which illustrates Chinese and Japanese history, folklore, and literature with the moon as a unifying theme. Taken as a whole, Yoshitoshi's "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon" is a masterpiece showcasing Yoshitoshi's tremendous talent as an artist and his deep sentimental connection to Japan's rich cultural history.