Meiji-period Double-faced Print Fan, Japan, 1887, School Of Utagawa Sadahide

Made of paper glued to fabric, this Meiji-period Japanese fan from 1887 is from the school of Utagawa Sadahide. The illustration style (a blend of traditional ukiyo-e prints produced by woodblock engraving and painted/embellished motifs), the construction of the bamboo and fine wood frame, as well as the overall aesthetic, are entirely characteristic of the late 19th century and very early 20th century. 
The medallions in the shape of clouds or decorative windows (the woman under the cherry blossoms, the red temple/building, the vase, and the butterfly) were printed using ink and mineral pigments applied from carved wooden blocks. The light turquoise-blue background areas and certain secondary floral motifs (the chrysanthemums and stems painted between the cartouches) were hand-highlighted in the workshop using water-based tempera or very diluted light gouache.