Japanese Shunga Emakimono hand scroll
9.5 in x 206in

Reading from right to left: The first two detailed paintings on silk are in a large format (Aiban 8.75in x 12.5in.), an amorous couple wearing intricately patterned robes with a painted screen as a backdrop. The following five smaller (Koban 6.5in. x 8in.) paintings on silk are less detailed. The last five paintings are in the long horizontal (Chutanzaku 5in. x 15.5in.) format of ink and colours on paper depicting close-up views of amorous couples. Also this is an unusual mounting style for a hand scroll wherein the background paper of the hand scroll is cutout in a window pane effect and the edges of the paintings are mounted over the cutout accentuating the translucency of the images. This particular grouping of erotic paintings use costume as part of a designation of the breadth of class and the common unifying element of the similarities in the union of each couple portrayed. Organic material for scroll end mounts.

Good condition overall; Minor creases from rolling and mounting, some age discoloration and a few spots, otherwise fine condition.