I have just acquired several old Japanese woodblock prints which I list at this time. This and a few others were believed to be from the 17th C by the previous owner. While I cannot be sure of that, I do believe this double page image is an uncommon, perhaps extraordinary antique. This double page early image shows the folk-lore legendary figures of Ashinga and Tenaga, translated to Long Legs and Long Arms. These characters worked together as fishermen, Long Legs carrying Long Arms on his shoulders enabling them to wade into water and capture fish. (See the quote below). In this double page image we see two long armed men grasping hands at the top, and two long legged men at the bottom with arms and feet crossed or touching. The papers on which these are printed ea measure approx 6″ x 9″. The image borders measure approx 5 1/2″ x 5 1/2″. He colors are strong, with no stains or foxing. The borders of the prints ea measure about 5 1/2″ x 7″. This is extremely thin paper, delicate, with the print on the right having a hidden tear in the border upper left facing. Their bottom edges are irregular. They are not laid down… Not glued, each tipped in place with simple tape at the top which allows their removal without damage. In addition they are covered with a double window mat, with the inner borders of the paper hidden, and all of each print to be seen in its entirety. I include some photos of darkened areas. The pair is commonly described as people from two countries, the “Long-legged Country”, and the “Long-armed Country”. As the names suggest, the inhabitants of these two countries possess unusually lengthy arms and legs. The two work together as a team to catch. In order to do this, the long-armed man. Climbs onto the back of the long-legged man. Then wades out into the shorewaters, staying above water with his long legs, while the. Uses his long arms to grab fish from his partner’s back. This item is in the category “Antiques\Asian Antiques\Japan\Prints”. The seller is “saganguy” and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped worldwide.
- Region of Origin: Japan
- Age: PRE 1900
- Primary Material: Paper
- Maker: SIGNED
- Original/Reproduction: Antique Original
- Color: Multi-Color