A whimsical composition showing a monkey with a bell and lantern, this print reveals Tokuriki's playful side beyond his more formal landscape and temple views. Animal subjects are scarce in his output, lending them added collector interest. Prices for publisher editions range from $100-$350, with the charming subject matter driving steady demand among decorative print buyers.
A monkey clutches a bell and a lantern in this mid-twentieth-century print by Tokuriki, the animal rendered with the playful, affectionate quality he brought to occasional animal subjects. Monkeys appear in Japanese religious iconography as messengers of the deity at Hie Shrine and in the Sanno faith, and their association with bells and lanterns — objects of the sacred precinct — gives this apparently lighthearted subject a deeper cultural grounding. Tokuriki's warmth for animals is evident in the monkey's characterization, which is dignified despite the comic potential of the subject.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Monkey with Bell and Lantern was created by Tomikichiro Tokuriki (徳力富吉郎) in 20th century.
Monkey with Bell and Lantern uses Nishiki-e, Moku-hanga, and Kento, on woodblock print, ink and color on paper.
Monkey with Bell and Lantern was published by Unsodo (20th century).
Monkey with Bell and Lantern depicts daily life and animals.
Monkey with Bell and Lantern measures 21.1 × 27.3 cm (Chuban format).
