Rare Vertical Shikake-e (Toy Print) from c.1840 — attributed to Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861)
 
This slender, vertical shunga woodblock print picture contains three different shunga close-up scenes, all highly erotic in their own particular way.
 
Vertical, shikake-e format shunga are exceptionally scarce, especially in such stellar condition.
 
Details:
Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi
Date: c. 1840
Format: Vertical shikake-e (toy shunga print)
Size: 17.5 × 3 cm 
Condition: Virtually mint condition.  Excellent colors and impressions.  No backing.  
 
This remarkable vertical shikake-e presents a clever progression from elegant bijin portraiture to boldly erotic imagery, encapsulating the dual nature of Edo-period shunga: refinement and sensuality intertwined.  The narrow format, uncommon subject treatment, and outstanding condition make it a particularly desirable example of this scarce category of Japanese erotic woodblock print.  A rare and memorable collector's piece with undeniable visual impact.