This listing is for a vintage Japanese woodblock print titled “A Melon and the Rats”, accompanied by its original bilingual explanation sheet (Japanese & English).
The artwork is a historical reproduction of a classical Chinese painting attributed to Yuan Shan-chih (Yüan Shan-chih), and it likely dates from the early to mid-20th century, produced as part of an educational or museum portfolio.
The print shows exceptional detail, with traditional Japanese printing techniques visible under magnification—fine pigments, layered tonal gradients, delicate outlines, and natural fiber paper texture.
This piece is mounted on its original presentation sheet, as commonly done in early Japanese museum portfolios.
Total sheet size: approx. 15 x 11 inches
Image area: approx. 11 x 8.5 inches
(If you want, tell me your exact measurements and I update this.)
Authentic vintage Japanese woodblock reproduction
Includes original translucent explanation sheet titled “A Melon and the Rats”
Printed on natural fiber Japanese paper
Traditional multi-layer ink application with subtle grain textures
Artist attribution: Yuan Shan-chih (Yuán Shànzhī), an admired painter from the Sung dynasty period
Stamp/seal present on image, as issued
Overall good vintage condition for its age.
Minor toning and age discoloration on the outer margins
Small edge wear consistent with storage
Image area remains clean, vivid and detailed
No tears in the printed section
Explanation sheet is intact with age toning
(See all photos for close-up condition details.)
This type of portfolio print is increasingly collected because it:
Shows true traditional woodblock craftsmanship
Comes with original documentation
Represents an important classical subject in East Asian art
Has strong decorative appeal with warm, earthy tones
Suitable for framing, collecting, or gifting.