WOODBLOCK, Japanese.

A fine example of a hikifuda woodblock (227 x 307 mm.), carved on one side only, advertising the medicine <I>Senshakutō ryakkō</I> 疝積湯略効.

Japan: late Edo.

Woodblocks are invaluable historical artifacts in East Asian history, serving as key instruments in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. The printing process involves brushing ink onto the carved surface, pressing a sheet of paper onto it, and rubbing it with a printing pad or brush to transfer the inked negative impression.

Carved on one side, this woodblock was created to print a hikifuda 引札, a handbill, flyer, or inserted advertisement for stores or products. It advertises a liquid cure-all medicine for chest and abdominal pains of both men and women.

Remarkably, the envelope of thick coarse paper containing the woodblock is present. Both sides of the envelope bear descriptions of the woodblock and the abbreviated trade name of the manufacturer Nakachū 中忠.

In fine condition.

Price: $2,500.00

Item ID: 11582