1917 Utagawa Kuniyoshi Seichu Gishi Den 47 Ronin Woodblock Prints Lot of 4

Offered here is a matching group of four antique Japanese color woodblock prints reproducing designs by celebrated ukiyo-e artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797–1861).

The prints are from Kuniyoshi’s famous Seichū Gishi Den, a series depicting the legendary Forty-Seven Rōnin / Loyal Retainers, one of the best-known samurai stories in Japanese history.

Kuniyoshi originally designed the Seichū Gishi Den series during the Edo period in 1847–1848. These particular examples are from the later 1917 Taishō-era woodblock reissue published in Japan, rather than original lifetime impressions.

Details:

• Artist/design: Utagawa Kuniyoshi
• Series: Seichū Gishi Den
• Subject: 47 Rōnin / Loyal Retainers / Samurai
• Date: 1917
• Period: Taishō era
• Publisher: Fuzoku Ezu Tosho Kankokai, Nishikie Division
• Distributor: Yoshikawa Kobunkan, Tokyo
• Medium: Japanese color woodblock print
• Approximate size: 10 x 7 inches each
• Quantity: 4 prints
• Country of origin: Japan

The group features four individual samurai figures in traditional armor and garments, several carrying swords and other equipment. The prints display excellent period-style detail, including intricate textile patterns, weapons, expressive faces, and the characteristic black-and-white retainer clothing associated with the 47 Rōnin story.

Each print bears the Ichiyūsai Kuniyoshi signature/design attribution within the image.

Condition:
Good antique condition overall. The sheets show expected age toning, light discoloration, minor spotting/foxing, and light handling or edge wear consistent with prints more than 100 years old. Colors remain attractive and the printed linework is crisp. Reverse sides show expected image show-through from the woodblock printing process. Please review all photographs carefully for exact condition.