HM001

20th Century Japanese Hand-Painted Woodblock Print Reproduction
This rare collection features high-quality, hand-painted reproductions from the early Shōwa period (circa 1930s). These works faithfully recreate iconic 19th-century Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints, many of originals which are held in the permanent collections of major museums throughout Japan.

This print is reproduction of: "The Three Great Contemporary Magnifying Glasses originally by Artist: KEISAI EISEN, titled “Mirror of Contemporary Customs – Kanda Myojin”, a theme commonly depicted in early 20th-century traditional-style prints. The reproduction artist, or his lineage, are unknown.

Print produced on traditional Washi paper and comes with a white paper frame. print is in very good condition, with vivid colors and well-preserved paper, protected in individual nylon sleeves.

The Three Great Contemporary Magnifying Glasses

1.  • Print size: 41.5 cm (L) x 28 cm (W)
    • Paper frame size: 49 cm x 34.5 cm
   
   

Condition:
Excellent for it's age. prints is vibrant, structurally sound, and complete with original paper mounts.
Links to museum-displayed originals can be provided upon request.

More Information about KEISAI EISEN and the print:

Title of the Work:

The Three Great Contemporary Magnifying Glasses

Artist:

Keisai Eisen (original)
Reproduction Artist: Unknown

Type:

Hand-printed Woodblock Reproduction

Date:

Showa Period (20th Century), Postwar

Technique:

Traditional Japanese woodblock printing on Washi paper

Dimensions:

• Paper size: 490 x 345 mm

• Image window size: 365 x 340 mm

Signature:

No reproduction artist’s signature present

Condition:

Minor damage on the outer edge of the window frame; otherwise, very good

About the Artwork

“The Three Great Contemporary Magnifying Glasses” is a satirical ukiyo-e work originally by Keisai Eisen, a prominent artist of the late Edo period. The image portrays a woman examining the world through a tengankyo, a traditional magnifying glass. Eisen cleverly uses this motif to humorously critique and reflect on the societal trends and behaviors of his time.

What is a Tengankyo?

A tengankyo is a magnifying glass that was popular during the Edo period, especially among fortune-tellers who practiced physiognomy (face reading) and palmistry. It frequently appears in ukiyo-e prints as a symbol of observing the world—often used for satire or social commentary.

About the Artist: Keisai Eisen

• Period Active: Late Edo Period (early 19th century)

• Born/Died: c. 1790 – 1848

• Birthplace: Musashi Province (modern-day Tokyo)

Artistic Style & Legacy:

• Renowned for bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), with a refined, sensual style

• Masterful depiction of skin tones and textiles, creating graceful and elegant compositions

• Produced both standalone prints and illustrated books, including yomihon and kibyōshi

Career Highlights:

• Began as an illustrator of narrative fiction

• Influenced by Utagawa Toyokuni, later fully embraced ukiyo-e

• Prolific creator of both beauty portraits and landscape prints

• Adopted the name Keisai Eisen in his mature years