Author: [EHON] Sakai Hoitsu (1761-1828)
Title: O^Son Gafu
Description: 18. SAKAI Hoitsu, author and artist. OSON GAFU Zen Kinkado is the publisher n.p. [Edo] circa 1840-50s A single volume, string-bound Japanese style, fukuro toji 26 x18.4cm is housed in a modern chitsu 26.3 x 19.2cm. Yellow covers with brushed title slip. Title page on salmon color paper on the inside front wrapper followed by two introductory printed prefaces in calligraphy. There are ads on the final text page, undated, but the Edo location of Suwaraya Sahei indicates it was printed at the end of the Edo period. With poetry by Hoitsu, all in Japanese text. 25 double-page color and monochrome original woodblock prints by Sakai Hoitsu (1761-1829).The title Oson Gafu loosely translates as, "A Book of Drawings by Oson," being the art name of Hoitsu. Sakai Hoitsu (1761-1828) was an established Edo artist from a samurai family whowent on to become a Buddhist monk. He he helped to revive interest in the work of the artist Ogata Korin (1658-1716) and practiced in his style. This copy resembles the one in the Waseda University library, but its colors are more muted. It is also published by Kinkado. But the Waseda copy locates the publisher in Tokyo, hence a Meiji work. Ours does not mention Tokyo and on the ad page at the rear references Edo as the location of Suharaya Mohei, hence an Edo copy, probably in the 1840s or 50s. Comparing the blocks to the MET copy, which is a very early one, it seems that the Kinkado versions were restrikes from the original blocks as they appear absolutely identical to the earliest printings. The works include Mt. Fuji, a weeping cherry, a plum branch,flute, camellia blossoms with a tea cup, pears, and two turtlesome of which are accompanied by a poem by the artist.Woodcuts coincide with Mitchell p. 443. See also Hillier p.661-5 and Forrer's book on Eirakuya p. 234 for other editions of this important book. From the collection of Prof. Stephen Addiss. Dirt staining to covers. A very good printing of an unusual edition in a custom clasped chitsu case.. $3,500.00. .

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