Lot 155
Rare 18th Century Shunga (Japanese Erotica) possibly by Kiyonaga. Shunga is a Japanese term for erotic art and was produced between the sixteenth century and the nineteenth century by ukiyo-e artists, usually executed in woodblock prints. Shunga was enjoyed and purchase by both men and women and reached its height in the Edo period (1603 to 1867). Thanks to woodblock printing techniques, the quantity and quality increased dramatically even with governmental attempts to shut them down. Shunga may have served as sexual guidance for the sons and daughters of wealthy families. The instructional purpose has been questioned since the instructional value of shunga is limited by the impossible positions and lack of description of technique. Offered is a rare shunga book (19 p.p.) from this period. Consignor has attributed this work to Torri Kiyonaga (1752-1815) signature looks correct, but we ask interested parties to engage in their own due deligence. Book contains 18 wood block images of adventurous sexual positions and 20 pages of text in thick paper covers and bound in thread. Front and back covers exhibit considerable wear. Inside pages exhibit toning, scattered soiling, the colors muted, nevertheless illustrations remain quite vivid. 4¼ x 6½". Rare. Please contact auction house if interested in seeing other images. Estimate Value $1,800 - 2,500
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