signed zen Hokusai IItsu hitsu

Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, 1760-1849) Eight Views of the Ryukyu Islands (Ryukyu Hakkei) (complete series, eight works), circa 1832 Woodblock on paper 10-3/8 x 15-1/8 ines (26.4 x 38.4 cm) (each sheet, oban) Signed: Zen Hokusai Iitsu hitsu Published by Moriya Jihei Hokusai created this rare, complete set of Eight Views of Ryukyu (Ryukyu Hakkei) to commemorate the Ryukyu tribute mission's arrival in Edo in November 1832. The Ryukyu Kingdom, founded in 1429, expanded its territory and enjoyed a unique cultural independence for 450 years. Considered a foreign country for many Japanese, Ryukyu and its mission's parades into the Japanese mainland were exhilarating events for locals. Hokusai produced this set of woodblocks during the heightened excitement of the mission's arrival. Hokusai did not visit the Ryukyu islands personally but instead based his prints on a collection of Ryukyu topographical illustrations created by Zhou Huang, a Chinese envoy who visited Ryukyu and Japan in 1756. Hokusai closely followed Huang's black-and-white illustrations; however, he added his own touch and brought them to life with incredible tones and colors through the woodblock process. Although the images depict real locations, he created and added other elements to imbue the works with an exotic feel. He also included some familiar elements for Japanese viewers, such as snow-peaked, Mt. Fuji-like mountains, which are not found in Ryukyu. In the print Nakajima Shoen in Izumizaki, thickly grown banana leaves (basho) and a rock called Nakajima Oishi appear in the foreground. Additionally, the boat on the right and the shadows of mountains in the distance do not appear in Zhou Huang's original drawing but instead point to the stylistic arrangement and artistic sensibilities typical of Hokusai. The original colors of this series have been remarkably well preserved, allowing viewers today to experience the same visual impact as those in the Edo period. This testament to the longevity of Hokusai's work enhances our appreciation of his artistic mastery. Property from the Nelkin Collection HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Prints present very well with vivid colors, a well preserved, complete series. The condition of the works are consistent with their age. Some extremely small scattered wormholes and minor areas of skinning in sheets, not overly impactful to overall compositions, not further biological degradation observed. A few extremely small, single or localized areas of foxing; not overly impactful to compositions. Mild handling dents with some light creasing throughout sheets. Mild toning with inked colors still appearing vibrant, toning appears even throughout pointing to age related toning. Unframed. No major tears or areas of restoration observed.