Utagawa Kunisada (Japanese, 1786-1865). Ukiyo-e woodblock print titled "The Syllable Ki: for Kisshoji" from the series "Seisho nanatsu iroha (Seven Calligraphic Models for Each Character in the Kana Syllabary)," depicting two figures, one woman in a fine robe printed with flowers and a man holding a pipe, 1856.

Provenance: From the collection of Frederick and Catherine Asher, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Frederick M. Asher and Catherine E. Asher were prominent scholars in the field of Art History. Both dedicated their lives to the education of students, teaching for many years as professors at the University of Minnesota. They both had a passion for South Asian art, traveling extensively throughout India, Asia, and the Middle East. Selections from their travels and careers as avid art historians are offered in this auction. Their collection includes Indian jewelry, Japanese woodblock prints, an incredible slide collection, and much more.
Unframed; height: 14 in x width: 9 in. Board; height: 15 in x width: 10 in. The sheet is toned. The colors are somewhat subdued. All corners show minute losses or tears. There is an oblong hole along the upper right corner. There is a minute hole along the upper top center edge. There is a small hole near the lower right corner. There is a small red-colored stain along the lower figure's top hand, possibly original to the artistic production. Throughout the sheet there are numerous light creases. The artwork is plastic wrapped and the verso could not be inspected due to this.