1897 Original Japanese Ukiyo-E Woodblock Print Triptych: "Ancient Football at Chiyoda Palace" by Chikanobu – Rare Sports Subject, Meiji Era Antique

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Description

The Ultimate Intersection of Fine Art and Sports History
This exquisite original Ukiyo-e woodblock print triptych is a masterpiece by … Read more The Ultimate Intersection of Fine Art and Sports History
This exquisite original Ukiyo-e woodblock print triptych is a masterpiece by Toyohara Chikanobu (1838–1912), the preeminent chronicler of Meiji Era courtly life. Part of his most celebrated series, "Chiyoda no Omote" (Chiyoda Outer Palace), this specific work captures the elegant and dynamic game of Kemari—the ancient Japanese ancestor of modern football (soccer).

A Proven Investment Piece
Works from the Chiyoda no Omote series are staples of the international art market and are highly regarded by prestigious institutions. Similar high-quality triptychs from this series have consistently commanded strong prices at major auction houses and are frequently valued between $600 and $1,000 at world-renowned galleries such as Ronin Gallery and Scholten Japanese Art. This specific "Football" theme is particularly coveted due to its cross-disciplinary appeal to both art connoisseurs and sports history collectors.

Artistic Excellence

Historical Significance: Published in Meiji 30 (1897), it depicts the Japanese aristocracy engaged in a sport that emphasizes harmony and skill beneath a canopy of blooming cherry blossoms.

Visual Condition: This set boasts excellent color saturation and printing quality (Suri), with the elegant greens and soft pinks remaining remarkably vibrant for its 120+ year age.

Authenticity: Features the original artist’s signature and publisher's seals, confirming its status as a genuine Meiji-period antique.

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**ATTRIBUTION AND DATING**

Artist attribution, publication details, and dating are based on available documentary information and observable physical evidence, including signatures, seals, inscriptions, publisher marks, paper characteristics, and other relevant features.

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