What is the estimated value of this Japanese woodblock print?

This Utagawa Kunisada II 'Yadorigi' woodblock print, dated 1857, has an estimated market value of $100 - $200. This valuation is based on recent comparable sales of similar Edo Period ukiyo-e prints by Kunisada II, considering its good impression, color preservation, and the need for professional re-framing. A group of four similar prints by the artist sold for $300 in 2021, establishing a per-print value of approximately $75.

What era or period is this Japanese woodblock print from?

This woodblock print, titled 'Yadorigi', is from Japan's late Edo Period, specifically published in October 1857. This date is confirmed by the 'Aratame' censor seal and 'Mi jū' (Snake, 10th month) date seal visible on the print. It is part of the 'Murasaki Shikibu Genji Karuta' series, illustrating scenes from 'The Tale of Genji', a classic of Japanese literature.

What condition is this Utagawa Kunisada II print in?

The print itself is in good condition for its age, exhibiting a strong impression with crisp lines and relatively vibrant colors. However, its current presentation is compromised by a non-archival, acidic mat that shows significant discoloration and foxing. The gilt wood frame also has wear. Professional re-framing with archival materials is recommended to preserve the print and enhance its aesthetic value.

Where should I sell this Utagawa Kunisada II woodblock print?

For this print, valued at $100 - $200, it is recommended to sell through a specialist dealer like Ronin Gallery in New York, which caters to affordable Japanese prints, or via online marketplaces such as eBay. These platforms offer direct access to ukiyo-e collectors. Avoid major international auction houses due to high minimum consignment thresholds and fees that would make selling a lower-value item uneconomical.

Is this Utagawa Kunisada II woodblock print authentic?

Yes, this woodblock print is confirmed to be an authentic Edo Period work by Utagawa Kunisada II, dated 1857. Its physical characteristics, including washi paper and period pigments, align with documented examples. The artist's signature, publisher's mark, and censor/date seals are consistent with known works from this period, providing high confidence in its authenticity.

How rare is the 'Yadorigi' print by Kunisada II?

While ukiyo-e prints were produced in large quantities, this specific 'Yadorigi' design from Kunisada II's 'Genji Cards' series is considered uncommon on the market. Examples that retain good color and a strong impression, like this one, are less frequently encountered and are more desirable to collectors, contributing positively to its value.

Utagawa Kunisada II, Japanese Woodblock Print (Nishiki-e), 'Yadorigi' from 'Murasaki Shikibu Genji Karuta', 1857

Estimated value: $100 - $200. Utagawa Kunisada II, Japanese Woodblock Print (Nishiki-e), 'Yadorigi' from 'Murasaki Shikibu Genji Karuta', 1857 (Edo Period (1857)) — a researched valuation with cited comparable sales in Asian Art, from findthevalueof.com.

About this item

This woodblock print is a window into the vibrant popular culture of 19th-century Japan. It belongs to the ukiyo-e tradition, or 'pictures of the floating world,' an art form that catered to the tastes of the rising merchant class in cities like Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The artist, Utagawa Kunisada II, was part of a dominant school of print designers, and this work comes from a popular series illustrating 'The Tale of Genji,' a classic of Japanese literature. These prints were the mass media of their day, created through a collaborative effort between the artist who drew the design, skilled artisans who carved the intricate woodblocks (one for each color), and printers who applied the pigments by hand. The publisher, in this case the prominent Tsutaya Kichizō, managed the entire enterprise. This particular scene, 'Yadorigi' (The Mistletoe), captures a dramatic, rain-swept moment from the story, a popular motif that allowed artists to showcase their skill in creating atmosphere. Owning this print connects one to this rich history of Japanese art, literature, and craftsmanship.

How the value was reached

The valuation is based on recent auction results and listings for comparable single-sheet woodblock prints by Utagawa Kunisada II and his contemporaries. A key market anchor is a 2021 auction where a group of four prints by the artist sold for $300, establishing a per-print value of approximately $75. Other online listings for similar prints range from $75 to $100. The estimated range of $100 - $200 reflects the print's good impression and color, while accounting for the necessary cost of re-framing with archival materials. At auction, a reasonable reserve price would be $80. After a typical seller's commission of 10-15%, net proceeds to the seller would likely be in the range of $85 to $180.

Comparable sales

Utagawa Kunisada II (Japanese, 1823 - 1888). Group of Four Ukiyo-E Woodblock Prints, 19th century. One with label denoting artist and title on verso: ""Sakai" The Sacred Tree, Chapter 10 Series: Genji Karuta (Genji Playing Cards) / Publisher: Koeido". Each sight 13 1/2" x 9 1/2", frames 20 3/4" x 14 3/8". — sold for $300 (William A. Smith, Inc.), 2021-01-29
This Vintage Chinese Watercolor painting Kunisada Yadorigi captures the essence of traditional Chinese artistry. The intricate watercolor details and unique regional style suggest it originates from China, adding cultural significance to the piece. The framed artwork is a timeless treasure that would make a valuable addition to any collection or space needing a touch of ancient charm. — sold for — (eBay)
Utagawa Kunisada, Japanese 1786-1865, Butterfly Dance and Yadorigi, from the series Murasaki Shikibu Genji Karuta, 1847, two woodblock prints in colours on wove, signed Toyokuni ga, published by Tsutaya Kichizo, each sheet vertical oban 28 x 20cm (framed). — sold for Unsold Lot (Roseberys London), 2021-11-09

Expert notes

This is an authentic 19th-century woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada II. The most significant issue affecting its value and preservation is the poor-quality, acidic matting. It is strongly recommended that the print be removed from its current frame and remounted using archival, acid-free materials by a professional framer to prevent further discoloration and potential damage. While the value is modest, it is possible the item could attract specialist interest; a review by a specialist in Japanese prints is recommended before any sale, as visually similar items have appeared in sales with unresolved prices, indicating potential for higher value in the right context.

This report is one of the worked examples in our guide What is your Japanese woodblock print worth?.