[CODED POLITICAL COMMENTARY].

節分. [Setsubun].<BR> [Satirical Kawaraban, Setsubun].

[Japan]. 1868? Stock ID #214216

Colour woodblock print, 18 x 25.3cm. A little soiling, some worming and inoffensive paper repairs on reverse.

This intriguing kawaraban, titled "Setsubun," likely dates back to around the time of the Boshin War in 1868. The illustration depicts several figures with "coded" faces, while a man wearing a fearful-looking headgear approaches to chase them away. The accompanying text delves into the conflicts between supporters of the Shogunate, including Aizu samurai, and Imperial supporters on the outskirts of Kyoto. Due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter, individual figures in the illustration were coded to avoid accusations from authorities. However, for those familiar with the context, both the text and illustrations could be correctly interpreted, revealing the underlying message of the kawaraban.

This kawaraban serves as a scarce and cryptic depiction of the political tensions and conflicts during this tumultuous period in Japanese history, offering insight into the covert communication methods used to convey sensitive messages.

When referring to this item please quote stockid 214216.

Price: $950.00 AU

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