Utagawa Kunisada Genji Reprint, Meiji Taishō Early Shōwa Japanese Woodblock Print, Miniature Bijin-ga, ca. 1900–1935

Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) — Genji Reprint, Meiji–Taishō–Early Shōwa
Woodblock print, miniature edition, ca. 1900–1935
From the series Nise Murasaki Inaka Genji (偐紫田舎源氏, “The False Murasaki’s Rustic Genji”)

This miniature Japanese woodblock print reproduces Utagawa Kunisada’s (1786–1865) celebrated illustrations for Ryūtei Tanehiko’s Nise Murasaki Inaka Genji, a parodic retelling of the classic Tale of Genji. Originally published between 1829 and 1842, the story became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring multiple reprints into the modern era.

Artist’s signature: Kunisada ga (国貞画)

Poetic inscription (interpretative translation): “In the village of elegance, blossoms are many.”

Format: miniature print (6.2 × 9.5 cm) on washi paper

Printing: reprint from the Meiji–Taishō–early Shōwa period (ca. 1900–1935)

Highlights: mica (kirazuri) decorative effect still visible

Genre: bijin-ga (portrait of a beauty), Genji-e tradition

An evocative collectible that connects Edo-period artistry with early modern Japanese printing culture.
Safe and tracked shipping from Latvia (Riga Gallery of Japanese Art CloudyYokomido).

🔹 Series Note

Series: Nise Murasaki Inaka Genji (偐紫田舎源氏, “The False Murasaki’s Rustic Genji”)

Originally published between 1829 and 1842, Nise Murasaki Inaka Genji was a hugely popular illustrated novel written by Ryūtei Tanehiko (1783–1842) and illustrated by Utagawa Kunisada (1786–1865). It offered a humorous and lavishly illustrated parody of the classical Tale of Genji, adapted for the tastes of the late Edo audience.

Due to its success, the work was reprinted many times well into the modern era. Early 20th-century reprints (Meiji–Taishō–early Shōwa, ca. 1900–1935) often appeared in miniature format as collectible prints, retaining the original attributions: “Written by Tanehiko, drawn by Kunisada.” These reprints carried decorative features such as mica (kirazuri) and gold-speckled backgrounds, echoing the luxurious aesthetics of Edo surimono.

Today, these miniature reprints form a distinct category within ukiyo-e collecting: not Edo-period originals, but highly evocative artifacts that bridge Edo literary culture with modern Japanese printing traditions.

---
✨ If you love vintage Japanese art — scrolls, shikishi, paintings, calligraphy, oshi-e, posters and prints by 20th–21st century artists — visit our other gallery: https://japanesearty.etsy.com.
📷 Please note: antique and vintage pieces may show signs of age like stains, folds or wear. We do our best to show all details in the photos, but colors may vary slightly. Feel free to ask for extra pictures!
📦 All artworks are carefully packed in sturdy cardboard envelopes or tubes to ensure safe delivery.
☎️ Please provide your phone number at checkout — couriers often need it for delivery.
❓ Any questions? Just send us a message — we’re happy to help!