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Plaza de Armas is a place located in Peru where potters made Quinua Ayacucho pottery. Of all art forms in Peru, pottery lands at the top of the list. You will find a number of interesting techniques, shapes, colors, and designs. However, most of these are specific to the region within Peru in which the pottery is made.

The town of Quinua is most known for the talent of the potters. They are famous for manufacturing pieces of pottery known as “Quinua Ceramics”. Each of these pieces is designed to display local customs. Quinua is just 23 miles from the capital city and is the site of the Battle of Ayacucho where the country received its independence when fighting against Spanish troops.

In addition to Quinua Ayacucho pottery, this city is also famous for the high quality of red and cream clay that is used to make the pottery pieces. Although the forms and techniques are simple, almost child-like, the results are what amaze people. Many of the pottery pieces are chapels, churches, bulls, and houses. However, it is also common to see figurines of peasant farmers, neighbors busy gossiping, and religious themes.

Now, you can purchase Quinua Ayacucho pottery from a number of shops that specialize in these pieces or if you prefer, directly from one of the artisans who will sign the piece made. Of all the pottery pieces, the chapel and churches are the most popular. Typically, these ceramic pieces are used on mantles, bookshelves, or tables. Interestingly, the church pottery piece is used to protect homes from evil spirits, which is why you see them displayed.

When visiting Quinua, you can visit the Plaza area by climbing the charming cobblestone walkway. The buildings in this town are whitewashed and there is even a quaint village church. These pottery pieces are exported around the globe because of the quality and whimsy of each piece. In fact, the local people have become quite good at marketing the products, getting word out about these brightly colored pottery pieces. However, today you will even find Quinua Ayacucho pottery made in pastel colors, something unheard of years ago. In fact, original pieces were all earth tone.

Although you will find more and more modern pieces of pottery being developed you can certainly still buy the traditional church or other figurines. While there are many skilled artisans that make Quinua Ayacucho pottery, one of the most famous artists is Mamerto Sanchez. As you walk along the main road, you will find a number stalls where pieces are sold.

The first real civilization in India was around 2500 BC, living near the Indus River valley. From 1500 BC to around 200 BC, Aryan invaders came from central Asia, taking over control of the northern regions or India. With them, they brought traditions for raising cattle and eating meat, along with gods. However, in the 8th century, the caste system, which was a hierarchy governed by strict rules took back supremacy. Historians then tell us that around 500 BC, Buddhism became the religion of India, being embraced by the Indian people while driving through Hinduism beliefs.

During the time from 40 to 600 AD, several Indian empires rose and fell and at this time, the practice of Buddhism began to decline. Around this time, north India separated into different Hindu kingdoms, especially after being invaded by the Huns. These kingdoms remained segregated until the Muslims arrived in 1192 from the Middle East. Over the next 20 years, all of Ganges basin was under the control of the Muslims and Islam was not able to penetrate the south. Additionally, two powerful kingdoms were formed in what we know today as Karnataka. This region consisted of two kingdoms - Vijayanagar, a Hindu kingdom and Bahmani, a fragmented Muslim kingdom.

By 1525, the Sultan of Delhi was defeated by Mughal emperors. As they came to Afghanistan, they brought with them a new age. By the 17th century, Goa was controlled by the Portuguese and trading posts had been established by the Dutch, Danes, and the French. In 1803 when the British took control over the Marathas, the majority of India was now controlled by a British East Indian Company that had created a trading post in 1612 in Gujarat. India was looked upon only as a place to make money, setting the religious beliefs and culture aside.

By now, the British were expanding coal mining and iron, and soon moved their focus to plantations to growing cotton, coffee, and tea. In addition, the massive rail network of India was under construction. Unfortunately, absentee proprietors were encouraged, which took the responsibility of tax and administration collection off them. However, the result was a landless peasantry was created that was horribly impoverished. Today, that very problem remains in West Bengal and Bihar. Then in 1857, there was a mutiny in the northern part of the country, which ended the East India Company. With that, the British government was handed over administration of India.

When World War II erupted, Indian independence and colonialism was hit hard. Even so, the Muslim minority declared that India would be independent but dominated by Hindu, causing communalism to grow. This brought out a political standoff and increasing tension among the people. Therefore, the country was divided, meaning that two powerful Muslim regions now resided on opposites ends of the country. Because of that, Pakistan would soon be divided by a hostile country. Once the division was publicized, the most impressive exodus in history occurred when the Muslims moved to Pakistan while the Sikhs and Hindus moved to India. At that, more than 10 million people took different sides. Experts believe this mass exodus resulted in 250,000 people losing their lives.

However, after this traumatic change, the country’s first prime minister named Jawaharlal Nehru, created socialist central planning and many strict policies. Even with clashes in Pakistan from 1965 to 1971, the country continued to be led by people who cared about India and its people. Although Jawaharlal Nehru had since left the position of prime minister, his daughter, Indira Gandhi took over in 1966. Regarded with respect, she had a bad habit of getting involved with the democratic basis of the country, which led to her being assassinated in 1984 by Sikh bodyguards. However, the Gandhi presence in India would continue when her son took the position. Rajiv came in with power and determination and with him, brought new policies.

With his guidance, India was brought out of isolationism in the 1990s but he too was assassinated while on tour for re-election when a supporter of the Sri Lanka’s Tamil Tigers took his life. Sadly, unrest continued throughout the country with terrorist activity. Then in 1998, India’s first nuclear weapons were tested even though some were outraged. Today, India is a country still trying to set boundaries and determine leadership. It is a beautiful country but one that should be visited with caution, especially in sight of the current war.

What you will find when visiting India is a country with a long, rich history. The main religion remains Hinduism, which is practiced by about 80% of the population. In all, more than 100 million Muslims live in India, which makes this country the largest of all Muslim nations. In all, there are approximately 18 million Sikhs, who live primarily in the Punjab. Although there is no one language in India, you will find 18 different languages spoken there to include English.

You will discover beautiful Indian art, which usually has some type of religious theme. Other fascinating aspects of this country include temple architecture and sculpture, classical Indian dance, miniature paintings, and mesmeric Indian music. The people of Indian are no different from others in that they enjoy theater and film, which consists mostly of melodramas based on music, romance, and violence. As far as diet, some Hindus are vegetarians, living mainly in the south part of the country, but not all are.

In fact, to the north you will find meat a common part of meals. They use what is called a Mughal style that is similar to Central Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. For instance, the food is generally spices. They also prefer breads and grains more than they do rise. Now, the south is where rice is the main dish, often spiced with hot curry. When eating, no utensils are used, just fingers and hands. Just remember, it is considered impolite to eat with the left hand!

Covering some 1.2 million square miles, India is the seventh largest country in the world, bordered by China and Pakistan. To the north are beautiful snow-capped peaks as well as lush valleys of the Himalayas. However, you will also find plains and plateaus that reach between 1,000 and 2,950 feet. You will even find magnificent hills along with fertile coastlines. The one thing you cannot take away from India is the incredible festivals. For example, the Republic Day Festival is held every January in Delhi. This festival is bright and colorful, featuring a magnificent procession, elephants, and much of the Indian culture on display. Then in February, Holi is held, which is considered one of India’s finest festivals. Taking place in the northern section, colored water and red powder are thrown on as many people as possible in one day. Other festivals include Shi’ite Muharram, Kumbh Mela, Rath Yatra, the Nehru Cup Snake Boat Races, Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussehra Festival, the Festival of the Gods, Diwali, Camel Festival, and more!

This year buy her something she won’t be expecting. Choose from our selection of over 7,000 different unique and unusual gifts from the Far East. We have Silk Scarves and Shawls from Thailand. Exotic Jewelry from Bali, Thailand, and Russia, If she likes to drink tea - we have Tea Sets, Tea Cups, Asian Tea, and even Books on Tea for her to read; and a great assortment of Home Decor gift items. We provide Free Gift Wrapping for any occasions. Let us know what the holiday or occasion is and we will select the appropriate wrapping paper and enclose a personalized card if you wish.

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This year buy him something he won’t be expecting. Choose from our selection of over 7,000 different unique and unusual handcrafted gifts, arts and crafts from the Far East. We have Dragons and Foo Lions in Brass and Jade, Tribal Masks from Bali, Chinese Snuff Bottles, and many other unusual gift items. We provide Free Gift Wrapping for any occasions. Let us know what the holiday or occasion is and we will select the appropriate wrapping paper and enclose a personalized card if you wish.

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Tired of sending your best customers and employees the same tired holiday gifts? This year, try something they will never forget. Choose from our amazing selection of Sushi and Sake Sets, Beautiful Vases from China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Peru, Nicaragua, and Mexico. Over 7,000 different Arts & Crafts available at affordable prices. Each year we work with every type of business from small and medium size to Fortune 500 companies. Investment Firms, pharmaceutical Companies, Casinos, Law Firms, Retail Chains; we have provided products for all of them.

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Now on sale is an amazing collection of Jingdezhen porcelain vases and tea sets from one of the finest workshops in the world. Unfortunately, the artist that creates these masterpieces for us has decided to retire. This will be our last shipment, and your last chance to own one of the great works of art. Our selection includes Blue and White underglaze, Yellow and White, Carved Celadon, Wucai, Famille Rose, and Yaobian glazes. The holidays are right around the corner and these will make truly one of a kind gifts.

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Batik is the art of waxing and dyeing fabric to create beautiful works of art.

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Serapes are commonly known as a type of Mexican shawl or blanket. This traditional item began as a masculine garment that reflected the technological and socioeconomic aspect of its production, distribution, and use, as well as the weaver’s personal experience. The designs vary tremendously, some that are simplistic and others quite elaborate.

The Mexican serape has a long and interesting history associated with the production of wool and cotton, two materials commonly used for a number of textiles by the Mexican people. The serape is made in numerous areas of the country, which is why it actually has many different names. For instance, the serape is also called chamarro, jorongo, cobiga, cotton, frazada, tilme, and gaban.

The fascinating aspect of the Mexican serape is that it is a perfect blend of weaving traditions such as European and Mesoamerican. That means that with the European style of weaving, you would see cotton and dyes used to create wonderful designs whereas for the Mesoamerican style, wool is used and mounted on a look to create designs. In other words, one is dyed to make unique designs while the other is weaved.

The woven styles associated with the Mesoamerican way of weaving the serape has been used primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the time this style of serape was developed, the quality in factories and workshops was amazingly good, created most often in states such as Coahuila, Guanajuato, Michoacan, Puebla, Quetetaro, and Zacatecas.

Another interesting fact about the Mexican serape is that it was a common garment used by people of all lifestyles. For example, it was common to see horsemen, workers, town residents, and even lepers all preferring to wear the serape. Keep in mind that these serapes were the type woven.

Now, the type of serape that used cotton and dyes was considered a luxury garment whereby aristocrats and hacienda owners would wear them. These serapes were worn to high society parties, for walks along the avenues, or simply out for a leisurely stroll. These serapes were so gorgeous that famed artists and travelers from other countries would marvel at their distinct and colorful design.

The Mexican serape was even worn by insurgents fighting in the War of Independence along with patriots in wars where the French and Americans fought. This means that the serape was a garment of choice whether a conservative or liberal. In fact, the Mexican serape was actually used in refuge camps to keep people warm and for clothing, as a shroud for loved ones killed in battle, and the Revolutionary’s flag. To this day, in the country of Mexico, this one item as well as the famous sombrero is what define the Mexican.

Serapes are also very versatile, being used as a shawl to dress up, a pillow on which to lay the head, as a coat for keeping warm, or even a bedcover. Even horsemen working the cold mountains and hot deserts use the serape as protection against the sun, rain, and snow. Remember, depending on the technique use for weaving, the serape can be a very sophisticated and elegant garment, a blanket on the back of a horse, or a blanket for a baby’s crib.

Although you can still find people in Mexico that make serapes by hand, whether with dye or the weaving process, because factories have made it possible for mass production, the popularity of the serape is increasing dramatically. Today, we see incredible colors and designs that were not available years ago. Typically, these more colorful serapes come from places like Contla, Chiauhtempan, and Tlaxcala.

Many of the designs you see used in serapes come from landscapes or photographs seen by the weavers of serapes that are made in Contla, Guadalupe, San Bernandino, Tlascala, Tlaxiaco, Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, and Zacatecas. The serapes made in Oaxaca and Santa Ana del Valle are most often made with natural colored fibers with the designs being replicates of paintings created by well-known artists.

The serapes woven will commonly have two woven sections that are then sewn together although there are some looms capable of creating one, large serape. Serapes made out of the finest wool usually come from the Cora and Huichol Indians. Then, the serapes made with wool and chichicazatle, which is a vegetable fiber that produces a green color and has a tick texture usually comes from Oaxaca, San Pedro Mixtepec, Santa Catalina Zhanaguia, and San Juan Guivine.

Another fascinating fact about serapes is that in 1835 during the Texan War, soldiers would wear this garment over their uniforms that were very different from what the commanders wore. This particular war limited the number of serapes that could be made because of the high demand of the soldiers. When done wearing them for fighting, the soldiers would take the serape and give it to their girlfriends or wives, other family members, or simply use it as adornment for their home.

Without doubt, the Mexican serape is one garment that has a rich and diverse history. Today, serapes are just as popular, often used for garments, throws on the back of a couch, or an extra blanket on the bed to keep the chilly weather at bay. You can purchase serapes in Mexico and many South American’s country or you can find them online. With the connection to other countries through the internet, many weavers are taking advantage of the opportunity by selling beautiful serape creations online.

Aztecs are Indians known for their control over south and central Mexico, ruling primarily between the 14th and 16th centuries. The name “Aztec” comes from their homeland of the north called Azatlan. Amongst the Indians, they call themselves Mexica. In addition, the language spoken by the Aztecs comes from the Nauatlan branch of the Uto-Aztecan family.

This particular tribe of Indians created the Toltec civilization, which was the result of hundreds of people coming to Lake Texcoco. The families that migrated to this area later were left to choose only swamp land, leaving the prime land to those who arrived first. For the late comers, the swamp provided just a single plot of land, completely enveloped by marshes. Although it seemed impossible, the Aztecs took their difficult situation, turning it into what we know as the Aztec Empire.

History shows us that the Aztec Empire was created partially on legend, which states that from the swampy area, an eagle could be seen eating a snake while perched high upon a cactus growing out of the swamps. This legend also states that the priests claimed when they came to this new land, this was the first thing they saw.

Through hard work and determination, the capital city called Tenochtitlan was completed in 1325. Amazingly, technology for this time included pipelines, bridges, and chinapas, which were small islands created by piling up mounds of mud. The Aztec people took full advantage of the chinapas, growing many foods such as beans, corn, chilies, squash, tobacco, and tomatoes.

Then, as a way of showing homage and respect to the gods, the capital city was covered in huge religious statues. These gods according to the Aztec beliefs is that they control every aspect of the Astec’s daily life. For example, Uitzilpochtli is the sun god, Coyolxauhqui is the moon goddess, Tlaloc is the rain god, and the creator of the calendar and writing is Quetzalcoatl.

In addition to worshipping gods, the Aztec people also believe strongly in sacrifices. In fact, the high priest would choose a man or woman, laying him or her over a round stone. Then with a very sharp knife, the individual’s heart would be cut out. With this type of sacrifice, the belief was that the good gods would stop the bad gods from carrying out evil deeds.

They also believed that the good gods drew their strength and power from the shed human blood and heart. Because they depended so heavily on the gods, they needed to continually keep them strong. Some rituals involved warriors being sacrificed, which was considered the ultimate honor. If a small sacrifice was required, then a prisoner would be used.

For marriage among the Aztec people, the groom would tie his shirt to the bride’s dress as an expression of bonding. After being tied together, the couple would then burn incense for four consecutive days. When done, the wedding ceremony could commence.

A change came about in 1519 when a Spanish explorer by the name of Hernando Cortes brought with him more than 500 men into the Aztec territory in their search for gold. Because the Aztec Indians believed Cortes was a white god so the held him in high regard. However, once the Aztecs saw Cortes and his men melting down their gold statues to ship back to Spain, their opinion changed dramatically.

Kochoro Kunisada was a Japanese artist famous for his woodblock prints. During the Ukiyo-e period, many of these prints focused on the “floating world” image. Kunisada was particularly focused on this genre. For instance, one of his most famous woodblock prints is called Beauty with a Letter; Juronin with a Deer. What you would see in this case is a Buddha floating above the beauty. In this case, woodblock prints such as this were often associated with the Buddhist believe with the floatation being the illusory quality of life.

Typically, woodblock prints focused had a distinct focus on festivals and changing seasons, rituals, landscapes, and illustrations of poetry. However, at the end of the Edo period, all prints made had to be approved by the Japanese government prior to releasing and selling. With Kunisada, he would often take everyday scenes and transform them into something peaceful and serene.

In one instance, Kunisada added a dog, coupled with a beautiful woman sitting while reading a letter. However, the depiction in the woodblock print was the dog wanting to play, thus asking for her attention. In addition, you would see, as the dog is trying to interrupt the woman, she envisions Buddha in her mind, which signifies the value and honor of religion.

The interesting thing about Kunisada’s work is the influence of Buddha. Keep in mind that many woodblock prints were focused on people or scenes, not religion. Therefore, his special skill makes the demand for his prints much higher. This versatility has imprinted his name on Japanese history, making him one of the most interesting artist’s of this time.

Being a pupil of Toyokuni Utagawa, Kunimasa’s work with woodblock prints was not only rare, but in high demand due to the detailing and quality. Kunimasa actually focused his artistic abilities doing work as a printmaker until 1805. At that time, he turned his direction to Kabuki actor portraits. As you can imagine, actors loved his work, often seeking him out to do a special painting.

Kunimasa originated from Aizu, which is a province in Iwashiro. At first, his work was solely to work in the dye shop when he made his way to Edo, which is today’s Tokyo. His work was so amazing and crisp that he was quickly noticed by Toyokuni. Soon after meeting, Kunimasa was asked to become an apprentice under Toyokuni’s guiding hand.

Again, while Kunimasa is best known for his beautiful work on Kabuki actors, he also focused his attention on Bijinga, which are portraits of beautiful women. As with most woodblock artists, each has a distinct style. For Kunimasa, his style focuses on capturing the intensity of Sharaku, using decorative pageantry that he learned from his master Toyokuni. Even though many compare his work in this way, and while Kunimasa is highly regarded as a woodblock artist, many believed he never achieved the degree of intensity that you would see with Sharaku.

Kunimasa actively painted woodblock prints from 1773 to 1810. One of his most amazing prints was a heartfelt tribute to Ebizo when he retired in 1796 from the Kabuki stage. Although he could have captured the actor in a number of ways, he chose a Shibaraku scene, which is ranked as the most famous and impressive of all drama. In this type of scene, the actor bursts onto the Hanamichi walkway coming from the backside of the theater, shouting “Shibaraku”, which translates in English to “Wait a Moment”. This shout draws attention, as the actor makes his way to the stage to save characters from death.

What we see with Kunimasa in his portrait of Ebizo was this scene, which was truly incredible. In addition, this particular portrait was done as a “large head” portrait, which is known as Okubi-e. As you can imagine, this depiction captures a unique profile of the actor. Also captured in the portrait is the colorful and detailed costume, as well as actor’s makeup. Then, you would see Ebizo’s wig, paper decorations tucked neatly beneath a black lacquer coat, green, detailed jacket, and the persimmon-colored costume. The overall presentation is stunning and the crux of this artist’s skill.

If you were to look back to the earliest Ukiyo-e woodblock prints, you would see that only Sumi ink was used, which was black. This particular ink was created by mixing soot with water. Because of the ink, the woodblock prints were called Sumizuri-e. However, from 1704 to 1715 during the Kanei and Shotoku periods, mineral pigment was used to create two to three colors, which was then called Tan-e.
Over the next 15 years during the Kyoho period, vegetable pigment was used. This ink was created from using Beni, which is a type of safflower, giving the prints a slight look of transparency. The prints using vegetable pigment soon changed to Beni-e, which resulted in prints that were brushed by hand but simply beautiful.Read More…

Known as Torii Kiyonaga, some of the greatest Bijinga prints created during the latter part of the 19^th century were done by this Japanese Ukiyo-e printmaker and painter. He began his career in the world of art in 1752, continuing until 1815. Having attended the Torii School, his name had been changed from Sekiguchi Shinsuke. His father was a bookseller in Edo.
Torii Kiyonaga was so well regarded by his master Torii that after the master’s death, he took over the school. Soon, he became recognized as one of the greatest masters of Nishiki-e, which is full-color print, as well as Bijinga, which are images of beautiful women. In addition, Torii Kiyonaga also focused some of his work on Kabuki actors and theatrical scenes, which were often used to help promote the theater and/or the show being performed.
One of Torii Kiyonaga’s legacies is that while he had a common upbringing, his paintings are exceptional and beautifully detailed. Many of the beautiful women shown in Torii Kiyonaga’s prints are seen are full and mature while his predecessor Harunobu, preferred to paint thin, young women. The bottom line is that both men had different tastes. However, it is also believed that since larger sheets of paper where used, it allowed better depiction.
Over time, another artist appeared on the scene by the name of Utamaro. He too painted woodblock prints of beautiful women but even fuller and more mature than what you saw from Torii Kiyonaga. While the paintings of women were gorgeous, the Kabuki scenes were somewhat on the plain side but still high in demand. Keep in mind that during this time, many of the other Japanese artists began painting actors but Torii Kiyonaga chose to stick with scenes and beautiful women.
By the late 18^th century, Kiyonaga’s work had matured. At this time, he created a number of masterpieces, again featuring full, mature, and beautiful women, along with theatrical scenes. While his work is of high artist quality, the fact that he was the first Asian artist to create perfect designs of full-length portraits shot him to success and fame.

Kochoro Kunisada was a Japanese artist famous for his woodblock prints. During the Ukiyo-e period, many of these prints focused on the “floating world” image. Kunisada was particularly focused on this genre. For instance, one of his most famous woodblock prints is called Beauty with a Letter; Juronin with a Deer. What you would see in this case is a Buddha floating above the beauty. In this case, woodblock prints such as this were often associated with the Buddhist believe with the floatation being the illusory quality of life.
Typically, woodblock prints focused had a distinct focus on festivals and changing seasons, rituals, landscapes, and illustrations of poetry. However, at the end of the Edo period, all prints made had to be approved by the Japanese government prior to releasing and selling. With Kunisada, he would often take everyday scenes and transform them into something peaceful and serene.
In one instance, Kunisada added a dog, coupled with a beautiful woman sitting while reading a letter. However, the depiction in the woodblock print was the dog wanting to play, thus asking for her attention. In addition, you would see, as the dog is trying to interrupt the woman, she envisions Buddha in her mind, which signifies the value and honor of religion.
The interesting thing about Kunisada’s work is the influence of Buddha. Keep in mind that many woodblock prints were focused on people or scenes, not religion. Therefore, his special skill makes the demand for his prints much higher. This versatility has imprinted his name on Japanese history, making him one of the most interesting artist’s of this time.

This particular artist, Kunichika, was born in 1835. As a serious student of Kunisada and Chikanobu, he took a part of each of his master’s names to create his own unique name, although his full name is Toyohara Kunichika. Born just outside Tokyo, this artist’s name was originally Yasohachi Oshima. As early as the age of 11, Kunichika took an interest in Chikanobu, the Ukiyo-e master. Then by 13, Kunichika was allowed to begin an apprenticeship. Although young, he soon started a name with a number of favorites although his most prized subjects were that of historical scenes, as well as Kabuki actors.

In 1863, Kunichika created an amazing portrait of Kunisada. His depiction was of a man with a very, thin fact, baldhead, and long nose. One year later, Kunisada passed away, a time when Kunichika’s portrait became popular. Although he is considered one of the most talented of all Ukiyo-e masters, history tells us that this artist was rather odd, an artist with a Bohemian type style.

At the age of 26, Kunichika was married. Soon to follow was a beautiful daughter named Hana. Interestingly, history is somewhat controversial on what happened next, some saying that he left her and others saying she left him. Regardless, what we do know is that Kunichika was fond of the women, having numerous companions. Kunichika was also bored easily, which is why it is believed he moved more than 100 times in his lifetime.

The one thing you cannot take away from Kunichika is his dramatic personality, almost to a point of being a show off. We do know that this artist had a strong interest in drinking and visiting the local brothels. However, Kunichika was also an amazing artist with a real passion for the Japanese theater, also known as Kabuki. Many times, he would make his way backstage during performances so he could spend time sketching various actors.

In addition to his actor prints, Kunichika was an amazing artist, capturing historic scenes and gorgeous women. While he had many highlights during his life, he was given special credit by a Tokyo newspaper in 1865, 1867, and 1885. We also know that his work was highly respected although he was never given the recognition that he so wanted by his master Kunisada. His designs were relatively easy to spot, usually designed with rich red and deep purple, often as the background of his prints. These colors were created with aniline dyes imported from Germany.

Today, you can still find Kunichika prints, which cost anywhere from $10 to $600 or more. One of the benefits to this artist’s creations is that the dye used does not fade. Therefore, even the prints you would find in “good” condition would be exceptional and bright. The only drawback is that this type of dye can bleed. Therefore, it is recommended that you look carefully at any Kunichika prints or designs to ensure there is no to few flaws. Although Kunichika died in 1900, he left behind many exceptional pieces to include a series of prints based on the Tale of Genji.

Known as Torii Kiyonaga, some of the greatest Bijinga prints created during the latter part of the 19^th century were done by this Japanese Ukiyo-e printmaker and painter. He began his career in the world of art in 1752, continuing until 1815. Having attended the Torii School, his name had been changed from Sekiguchi Shinsuke. His father was a bookseller in Edo.

Torii Kiyonaga was so well regarded by his master Torii that after the master’s death, he took over the school. Soon, he became recognized as one of the greatest masters of Nishiki-e, which is full-color print, as well as Bijinga, which are images of beautiful women. In addition, Torii Kiyonaga also focused some of his work on Kabuki actors and theatrical scenes, which were often used to help promote the theater and/or the show being performed.

One of Torii Kiyonaga’s legacies is that while he had a common upbringing, his paintings are exceptional and beautifully detailed. Many of the beautiful women shown in Torii Kiyonaga’s prints are seen are full and mature while his predecessor Harunobu, preferred to paint thin, young women. The bottom line is that both men had different tastes. However, it is also believed that since larger sheets of paper where used, it allowed better depiction.

Over time, another artist appeared on the scene by the name of Utamaro. He too painted woodblock prints of beautiful women but even fuller and more mature than what you saw from Torii Kiyonaga. While the paintings of women were gorgeous, the Kabuki scenes were somewhat on the plain side but still high in demand. Keep in mind that during this time, many of the other Japanese artists began painting actors but Torii Kiyonaga chose to stick with scenes and beautiful women.

By the late 18^th century, Kiyonaga’s work had matured. At this time, he created a number of masterpieces, again featuring full, mature, and beautiful women, along with theatrical scenes. While his work is of high artist quality, the fact that he was the first Asian artist to create perfect designs of full-length portraits shot him to success and fame.