LOT 121 – Pair of Antique Japanese Woodblock-Style Prints (c.1890–1920)

A beautifully preserved pair of antique Japanese woodblock-style prints, likely produced between 1890 and 1920 for the Western export market. Each piece features a full-length portrait: one of an elderly monk holding a staff and white bowl, and the other of an older woman sweeping with a traditional bamboo broom. These character studies were popular subjects in late Meiji and early Taishō period Japan, often sold in pairs to travellers. Both prints show fine hand-colouring over lithographic outlines and retain their original hardwood frames with gilt liners and early green matting. Signed ‘G. Okeda’ or ‘G. Okada’, indicative of studio artists active during this era. An elegant and rare decorative pair with over a century of history.