Williamson Auction
Live Auction

Auction 40, January 8th - The Opener

Thu, Jan 8, 2026 03:00PM EST
Lot 111

Antique Japanese Woodblock Print (Ukiyo-e): Utagawa Kuniaki II, "Colour of Spring: Lion Dance at the Mansion," 1861

Estimate: $400 - $800

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$150 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$4,000 $500
$15,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000

charming and original antique Japanese woodblock print by the respected Edo-period artist Utagawa Kuniaki II (1835-1888). Titled Shunshoku Yashiki no Shishi-odori (Colour of Spring: Lion Dance at the Mansion), the print is dated 1861.

The scene is a vibrant kabuki theater depiction of a costumed lion dancer performing for two accompanying musicians playing a drum and flute. The background features a picturesque landscape with a blossoming plum or cherry tree, framing a view of a lake and the mansion's veranda.

This piece is a single panel from what was originally a triptych design. The style, subject matter, and use of the traditional nishiki-e (brocade print) technique make it a classic example of late Edo-period ukiyo-e art.

Key Details:

  • Artist: Utagawa Kuniaki II (1835-1888)
  • Title: Colour of Spring: Lion Dance at the Mansion (Shunshoku Yashiki no Shishi-odori)
  • Medium: Original Japanese woodblock print (ukiyo-enishiki-e)
  • Date: 1861 (Edo Period)
  • Publisher: Koizumi Kanegorō
  • Dimensions: Image size is approximately 14 5/16 × 10 1/8 inches (36.4 × 25.7 cm).
  • Condition: The print has good color and detail. It is currently matted and framed. Minor signs of age, which may include light soiling, slight curling, or minor creases consistent with antique prints from this era. The print appears to be backed with paper. The framing condition is as pictured.
  • Provenance: Sourced from a private collection.

Dimensions: 21 x 16.5 inches.

Available payment options

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Amex
  • Diners
  • Discover
  • JCB
  • Union Pay

Shipping

For shipping assistance, we recommend contacting the following trusted professionals:

UPS Store: Phone 954-963-7134 Email store0288@theupsstore.com website

theupsstore.com/0288

Alternatively, we can provide additional recommendations for third-party shipping

services. All items will be shipped within 10 business days after payment has cleared.

Items must be picked up within 10 business days following the auction. Items not

collected within this timeframe will be placed in storage at a fee of $10.00 per item per day.