Although the set of koban-sized prints below is incomplete (it lacks two designs and the presentation folder) it is still appealing due to the charming designs and proficient printing techniques such as karazuri (blind printing or gauffrage), and gold and silver pigments. The artist is unknown but must be a prominent member of the Utagawa school (could be Kunisada).
‘Impromptu encounter at the bottom of a staircase.‘ by Utagawa school (c.1850)
‘A harmonious composition with two lovers (both with closed eyes) who merge completely. The heron standing on a snowy branch enhances the sensual atmosphere of the scene.’ (c.1850)
‘A dominant male with a determined expression on his face is tongue-kissing a young courtesan while resting his head on a takamakura (geisha pillow). They just finished their love-making (look for the tissue behind the legs of the girl) but he maintained his erection. They are watched from underneath the blanket by a young male attendant.‘ (c.1850)
‘An impulsive rendezvous of a married couple.‘ (c.1850)
‘A conventional scene with a kissing couple in the missionary pose avoiding the depiction of genitals. Their passion is accentuated by the fallen takamakura (geisha pillow) in the below left corner.‘ (c.1850)
‘Playful scene with a geisha and a client. She is a bit shy and uses the ball she is holding as distraction.‘ (c.1850)
‘Secret encounter between a geisha and a young male lover.‘ (c.1850)
‘Couple in the doggy-style pose. Striking are the thick plumes of smoke and the clawed waves depicted on the back wall.’ (c.1850)
‘At the riverbank on a red blanket two lovers are enjoying themselves. He is a samurai as the handle of the sword in the back indicates.‘ (c.1850)
‘Dynamic image with courtiers making love on a pleasure boat with the wild waves visible through the railing in the background. The woman is sporting a spectacular diadem representing a Chinese dragon.‘ (c.1850) by Utagawa school
Click HERE for some rare sensual koban designs by the 18th century master Isoda Koryusai….!!
