世の中ごますり　[Yo no naka gomasuri]

[n.p.], 1855. Colored woodblock diptych approx. 35 1/2 x 24 cm; 2 small worm holes on inner margins, otherwise fine and bright. An extrememly unusual and beautifully-colored Ukiyo-e print featuring Japanese men and women grinding spice under the eye of a Westerner. The only other copy located is at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Title translates as "We're all in this together" or "Currying favor in this world." (Inventory #: 41508)