Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
An original woodblock print (ukiyo-e) by the celebrated Meiji master Toyohara Chikanobu, depicting a woman in theatrical or festival attire with a dragon-and-turtle motif. This piece comes from his highly regarded series 'Jidai Kagami' (A Mirror of the Ages), which contrasts women of different historical eras with inset scenes of their respective periods.
Story
Published on March 5, 1897, this print captures the rapid modernization of Meiji-era Japan. Chikanobu juxtaposes a traditional beauty with a small inset scene showing modern flags, celebrating the country's new global identity.
Maker / Origin
Toyohara Chikanobu (1838–1912) was a master of the Meiji ukiyo-e school who lived through Japan's transition from a feudal samurai society to a modern empire. Originally a samurai himself, he turned to art to chronicle the changing fashions, imperial court life, and theatrical culture of a rapidly westernizing Tokyo.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in good condition with strong colors and visible woodgrain texture. There is minor toning and light edge wear consistent with age, but no major wormholes, tears, or backing paper visible on the reverse. Value is driven by the popularity of the 'Jidai Kagami' series and Chikanobu's standing among collectors.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.