Erwin Gerstorfer, one of the world's foremost collectors of go prints, has just published the first two of a series of authentic reproductions of classic woodblock prints (ukiyo-e). The artists of these two prints, Utamaro and Sharaku, are two of the most respected masters of this art form. Originals of these prints, if they could be found at all, would be worth tens of thousands of dollars or more.
These reproductions were made by traditional craftsmen who specialize in reproducing woodblock prints. The materials and methods used to reproduce them are exactly the ones used by Utamaro and Sharaku when they produced their original masterpieces. Exact line reproduction is achieved by copying from an original print. The cherrywood blocks are carved by master engravers, duplicating exactly the same lines of the original print. Printing is done by hand, employing the same processes used to produce the original print. This stage is the most tedious, since each natural-color dye has to be printed from its own block on hand-made mulberry paper (kozo).
Each print is fully identified, dated, and described with background information contributing to the viewer's appreciation and pleasure. An ideal present for your go-playing friends or anyone with an appreciation for fine art.Now available: Click box after the price for items you wish to order, then scroll to end to complete your order. UP1: Utamaro Kitagawa. The Widow of Hinodeya.Oban size: 43 x 28 cm. ¥9,000/US$80