25 Utagawa Kunisada 1786 – 1865 The Seventh Month (Fumizuki)

Japan, 6th month of 1855 (Edo period, Ansei 2), 
from the series The Five Festivals Represented by Eastern Genji (Azuma Genji mitate gosekku)

This dramatic and visually stunning triptych is a masterpiece by Utagawa Kunisada I. The scene originates from the series "The Five Festivals Represented by Eastern Genji" (Azuma Genji mitate gosekku) and specifically depicts "The Seventh Month" (Fumizuki). During the late Edo period, parodies of the Tale of Genji (known as Nise Murasaki inaka Genji) were an absolute cultural and theatrical phenomenon. In this night scene, anchored by a glowing full moon on the left sheet, the central male figure is captured in a tense, dynamic pose, partially drawing his sword. He is surrounded by figures adorned in exquisitely patterned, voluminous kimonos. A highly theatrical and mysterious detail is the female demon (hannya) mask visible on the right sheet, adding a supernatural undertone to the narrative. The print bears the censor's seals (aratame, Hare 6) on each sheet and features no blockcutter's mark. Once assembled, this triptych will serve as a monumental and eye-catching centerpiece in any collection.