-
"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
-
"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
-
"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
By an unknown artist, this 1860 color woodblock print is rooted in the late Edo period’s flourishing of nishiki-e, a vibrant form of ukiyo-e. Such prints were crafted for an urban public fascinated by stories, theater, and the spectacle of everyday life, and they often reflected the era’s fascination with both local and exotic subjects.
Today, these works are valued as vintage Japanese art for their historical resonance and graphic strength, and they are frequently displayed alongside other Japanese and Oriental prints in thoughtfully curated interiors.
The Artwork
This print, Azuma nishikie, captures a moment of dramatic encounter between a poised, kimono-clad figure and the imposing head of a tiger. In nineteenth-century Japan, tigers were rare and symbolized strength and protection, appearing in art and folklore as powerful, almost mythical creatures. The image reflects a fascination with the exotic and the tension between beauty and danger, themes that resonated with viewers of the time.
As a piece of decorative art, the scene evokes a sense of narrative—courage and composure in the face of the unknown—making it a compelling subject for collectors and admirers of Japanese visual culture.
Style & Characteristics
The composition features bold black outlines and flat, vibrant color fields, characteristic of nishiki-e woodblock technique. The contrast between the pale background and the deep blacks of the tiger’s stripes and the figure’s hair adds intensity to the scene. Intricate patterns on the kimono and subtle touches of red, yellow, and blue bring rhythm and energy to the print.
The overall mood is vivid and slightly surreal, with the tiger’s head rendered in a stylized, almost emblematic manner. This makes the print especially appealing to those interested in animal imagery and the graphic traditions of Japanese design.
In Interior Design
This Japanese vintage print serves as a striking focal point in living rooms, entryways, or studies, where its clarity and drama can be appreciated. It pairs well with minimalist or modern interiors, thanks to its clean lines, but also complements eclectic spaces that incorporate textiles, ceramics, and lacquered wood.
For a harmonious display, consider combining it with classic art posters and other vertical prints, using black frames and subtle accents of red or gold to echo the artwork’s palette.