THE ORIGINAL OJI PAPER COMPANY MILL
Tokyo Ojiseishi Kaisha. [Ojiseishi Kaisha Ryakuzu]. Tsunashima Kamekichi, 1877 (Meiji 10).
These charming views of the still quite new paper works are by Murai Shizuma, aka Utagawa Fusatane. They have the air of a grand exhibition; it is difficult to tell which of the bowlers and boaters are at work and which are idle audience. The women are easier, they are all at work. An impressive display of industrial might so early in the Meiji. Oji Paper still exists as part of a industrial behemoth, among the world's largest.
In the latter half of the nineteenth century, amidst the flourishing epoch of Japanese woodblock printing and painting, there existed a certain artist of considerable distinction, one Utagawa Fusatane, who, it must be noted, was born with the name Murai Seima. This Fusatane, having been fortunate enough to study under the tutelage of the estimable Utagawa Sadafusa, developed a singular style, one that was informed by the preeminent artists of his day, such as the illustrious Utagawa Kunisada and the celebrated Utagawa Hiroshige.
While it is lamentable that the precise dates of his birth and death remain elusive to the historian, the enduring legacy of Fusatane's artistry is a testament to his prodigious talent, bridging the world of medieval to industrial Japan. His corpus of work is indeed diverse, encompassing as it does an array of genres, from scenic vistas to portrayals of comely women, and even illustrations of quotidian customs. Moreover, he employed a variety of pseudonyms, including sai, Issh sai, and Ippy sai, demonstrating the breadth of his creative impulses.
Printing and the Mind of Man.
Engraving, 38 x 49 cm, folded, very good original condition with its printed paper envelope.
Price (AUD): $1,000.00 other currencies