Utagawa Yoshitora, "Englishman on Horseback"

Starting in the mid 1850s, Yokohama harbor was a principal port of entry for Westerners eager to trade with a newly opened Japan. Woodblock prints documenting this influx of foreigners (yokohama-e) provide a fascinating look into how Japanese viewed the newcomers. Here Yoshitora depicts an Englishman on horseback gripping a baton. The text in the foreground likely describes England and the customs and clothing of English citizens.

Date: 1861
Size: Oban
Publisher: Yamashi
Condition: Light toning, excellent color and condition
Frame Shown: 16" x 24" x 1/2", Classic Wood, Clear Walnut

Utagawa Yoshitora (active 1850 to 1880) is widely regarded today for his yokohama-e and documenting Japan's opening to the West. A pupil of Kuniyoshi, Yoshitora also is known for his warrior prints.