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This is a Japanese “Pillow Book” in the form of a RARE SHUNGA SCROLL. “Shunga” translates to “images of spring” or “spring drawings”, and refers to those Japanese paintings and prints of lovemaking made mostly during the 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries, but originating in 12th Century. In the latter period, Shunga reached its zenith when a movement of the artistically inclined (including Geishas) created what was referred to as the “Floating World” apart from Edo society. “Pillow Book” refers to a book of these images kept in a pillow box for use by the new bride or geishas as a reference guide to various techniques. Before the opening of Japan to the Western influences of the Victorian Era, Japanese society did not carry the shame associated with lovemaking. Shunga was produced by and during a time when the Japanese Ukiyo-e artists were considered masters in fine art.
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| This exceptional “Pillow Book” SCROLL features five different handpainted panes showing the newly married couple leaving from a dock followed by four bedroom scenes (it is viewed from right to left). In the photos you will see a four-foot ruler for size reference. The images in total measure about 48 inches by 8 inches. It appears that this was originally a 19th Century fan folded pillow book that was coverted into a scroll. Finely painted on handmade paper and trimmed with brown silk, this historic artwork is truly impressive and certainly a rare opportunity for a collector. Please view photos for condition. (Please note that parts of the images have been obscured for presentation on the Internet!) |
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