UTAGAWA KUNISADA (Toyokuni III)(1786-1864), triptych, color woodblock print. Japan, 1860s. 'Shiranui vs Jimmaku'
The Referee Shikimori Yojin (to the left) with the seated Referee Hidenoyama (to the right) presenting bouts between Shiranu and Jimmaku, both dressed in traditional clothing (Mawashi). Measurements attached sheets 76,5x37 cm. Measurement with passepartout 99,5x70 cm. Not framed.
Discoloration. Wear to edges.Soft handling creases. Colors possibly slightly faded. Spots to edges.
Provenance
From the Collection of Göran Flyxe.
Literature
Depicted in the exhibition catalogue "Sumo - Heavyweight Art", woodblock color prints form the collection of Göran Flyxe, Stockholm. Page 17.
More information
Japanese Sumo Wrestling is one of the oldest martial arts in Japan. Sumo wrestlers were a favorite subject on Japanese woodblock prints.
Sumo has its roots in the shinto religion. The matches were dedicated to the gods in prayers for a good harvest. The oldest written records date back to the 8th century. But it is probably more than 1500 years old.
Sumo prints from the 18th and 19th century prove the popularity of the sport in the past.