Posted by MIchael Nichols (209.77.148.20) on March 18, 2004 at 06:56:08:
In Reply to: Re: pigeons in hydrangeas posted by jodi on March 17, 2004 at 17:44:40:
Jodi, The three black characters most likely read 'Raku-san Kyo' and the characters in the oblong red seal probably are 'Raku-san Kou-shi-sei'. This is the normal signature seal combo for this design. Look very carefully around the margin on the left and right sides, just inside the colored area. If you see any tiny red typewriter print sized Japanese characters, the print is late. If none, it may be a first edition, and hence more valuable. The pale gray title-caption is not pencil or handwriting - it is actually carved and block printed in pale gray ink. Enjoy!