Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Undoubtedly the best artist of the second part of the 19th century, Taiso, or Tsukioka Yoshitoshi led a turbulent life. He was one of Kuniyoshi's star pupils, and he absorbed much of Kuniyoshi's genius and originality. Still, his career went with fits and starts, not least because of his own (mental) health. Moreover, he lived in turbulent times: he was 28 when the Meiji restauration took place, in 1877 he was an active witness of the Satsuma Rebellion. Only during the last 10 years of his life was he able to live in some financial security. His best work is very good indeed. It sold in huge numbers and is still widely available - it is good policy to look for the best impressions of his work.