Title: An Oshi-e Manuscript of Ukiyo-E Figures, Circa 1800-1860. A Marvelous Composite Manuscript, with Clothing and Vestments Made Using Kimono Fragments and Brocade. 88 Fabric Decorated Figures
Condition: Very Good
A Late Edo Period, early to mid 19th century manuscript of various figures and scenes of Ukiyo-e, produced using the Oshi-e technique, with the figures vestments and clothing made of kimono fragments and brocade, whilst the faces and backgrounds are all drawn and colored by hand.
A practice stemming from the Heian Period productions of Byobu (Japanese Folding Screens) and Fusama (Japanese papered sliding doors), oshi-e was a practice amongst women in the Imperial court, used to dress and produce dolls using kimono and brocade fragments, which was then more widely popularized in the Edo Period.
While Oshi-e Hina dolls still exist, and fabric oshi-e on individual sheets have been noted, this is the first time I have ever seen a composite manuscript produced in this manner.
Every figure has been produced with meticulous handiwork to forming every individual outfit, and some kimonos are practically glittering with brocade detailing and various hues. Whomever produced this manuscript put care into all 88 figures here.
One manuscript in quarto (24.9 x 17.8 cm), 18 leaves
This manuscript is in very good shape, with minimal rubbing and wear to the binding. There is faint yellowing and stains to the margins of some of the figures, and a few of the fabric threads have come loose.