Antique Japanese Imao Keinen Kacho Meiji Pheasant Bird Woodblock Print 12"

Description

Late 19th - early 20th century Meiji period Japanese woodblock print featuring a pair of male and female Chinese Pheasants seated under a cherry tree, by Imao Keinen. Print appears to be marked or pencil signed in Latin characters under the printed seal in the lower left corner (partially obscured by mat). Plain wood frame with carved detail; white mat.

"Imao Keinen was born in Kyoto in 1845 and passed away in 1923. His studies encompassed classical Japanese painting, calligraphy, and printmaking. At the age of 23, when the Edo era gave way to the Meiji era in 1868, Keinen faced a significant upheaval as his father's business succumbed to bankruptcy during this transition. To support himself, Keinen ventured into textile design.

Eventually, he established his own studio and gradually gained recognition as both a painter and printmaker. In 1888, he secured a position as a professor at the Kyoto Prefectural School of Painting. His artworks were exhibited extensively across Japan and even reached exhibitions in Paris, solidifying his reputation as an esteemed and celebrated artist.

Keinen's accolades continued to grow as he was appointed a member of the Art Committee of the Imperial Household in 1904 and later became a member of the Imperial Art Academy in 1919—prestigious honors within Japan's artistic circles.

In 1891, Imao Keinen published a significant work comprised of four volumes titled Keinen Kacho Gafu - Bird and Flower Albums by Keinen. These volumes collectively feature illustrations of 160 distinct birds. The fame of these albums might remind Americans of the renowned bird albums created by John James Audubon.

The publication of Keinen Kacho Gafu was carried out by Nihimura Soemon in Kyoto. Additionally, the identities of the carvers and printers are known: Carver - Tanaka Jirokichi, Printers - Miki Jinzaburo and Tanaka Harubei.

This compilation of albums stands as Keinen's most esteemed contribution to Japanese print art." (Source: Artelino - Dieter Wanczura)

Condition

Good Overall - Gentle wear to frame; discoloration to paper

Dimensions

12" x 0.5" x 9.75" / Sans Frame - 8.5" x 6.5" (Width x Depth x Height)