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Gekko Ogata
Wood Cut on Rice Paper "The Cicada Shell (Utsusemi)" by Gekko Ogata

1892

$650
£491.29
€574.65
CA$922.95
A$938.96
CHF 539.54
MX$11,291.02
NOK 6,299.01
SEK 6,336.72
DKK 4,295.84

About the Item

Wood Cut on Rice Paper "The Cicada Shell (Utsusemi)" by Gekko Ogata Woodcut is a striking 1892 woodblock print by Meiji-era master Ogata Gekko (Japanese, 1859–1920). It references The Tale of Genji, illustrating the moment a woman named Utsusemi flees Prince Genji’s romantic advances, leaving her silk robe behind just as a cicada sheds its empty shell.Ogata Gekko (1859–1920) was a leading Meiji-era Japanese ukiyo-e artist whose work reflects the transition from traditional Edo-period printmaking to modern visual culture. He is known for his highly individual style, combining classical Japanese painting principles with expressive line work and a strong narrative sensibility. Ogata Gekko, born Nakagami Masanosuke in 1859 in Edo (later Tokyo), grew up in difficult circumstances after becoming orphaned at an early age. He was adopted by the Ogata family and later adopted the name Gekko. Unlike many ukiyo-e artists of earlier generations, he did not undergo a formal apprenticeship within a printmaking studio, which contributed to his highly independent artistic development. Image, 13"H x 9"W Frame, 19.5"% x 15"W x .25"D Publisher: Yokoyama Ryohachi Seals: Artist seal, Enkatsu to (Carver) Signature: Gekko He initially worked in applied arts, including lacquer design and illustration for newspapers, magazines, and books. These early activities shaped his drawing style, which often emphasizes fluid line work and painterly effects rather than strict block-based color separation typical of traditional ukiyo-e production. Gekko died in Tokyo on October 1, 1920, leaving behind a diverse body of printed and painted works that span both commercial and artistic production contexts.
  • Creator:
    Gekko Ogata (1859 - 1920, Japanese)
  • Creation Year:
    1892
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 19.5 in (49.53 cm)Width: 15 in (38.1 cm)Depth: 0.25 in (6.35 mm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
    Color is good and paper was trimmed to size, Some age toning and spot bottom center of paper, on old backboard and vintage over-mat mounting as-is.
  • Gallery Location:
    Soquel, CA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: RJA101701stDibs: LU54218243442

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