Bidspirit auction | ANTIQUE JAPANESE WOODBLOCK PRINT BY

ANTIQUE JAPANESE WOODBLOCK PRINT BY KITAGAWA UTAMARO (1750-1806) TITLED READING A LETTER, 16IN x 18.5IN (41cm x 47cm) - Antique Japanese woodblock print by Kitigawa Utamaro (1750-1806) titled Reading a Letter. This piece is after the original which was created in 1802-1803. This piece was made by Hashiguchi Goyo, who is one of the most famous and admired artists of 20th century Japanese woodblocks. Often called the ”Taisho Utamaro,” Goyo published this masterful set of reprints as an homage to his Edo era predecessor. Released in 1920, shortly before Goyo's death, these are indisputably the finest Utamaro reprints ever produced. Sparing no expense in production, these prints feature finely embossed details and shimmering mica accents that truly distinguish them from lesser reproductions. These prints are considered some of the rarest and most valuable reprints on the market. As the production numbers for this series was quite low, they are almost impossible to find on the market today. This is an excellent opportunity for serious collectors as we are unlikely to come across another group of these oban Goyo reprints in such fine condition. Each print has the red rectangular Goyo seal in the margin or on the reverse. Terrific portrait of a young beauty studying a letter intently, crumpling it as she grasps it with both hands. Beautifully detailed with delicate line work in her sleek hairstyle and lightly embossed dots on her gray outer kimono. A classic Utamaro beauty subject. This piece was part of the famous Robert O. Muller collection, and it was purchased by Muller in the 1930s. This piece is matted and framed under glass, in a simple wooden frame. With frame, this measures 16 inches x 18.5 inches. This piece comes with a detailed Certificate of Provenance and Authority (see picture)., 16IN x 18.5IN (41cm x 47cm), LOT REF #25-228