1897 Wood Engraving Bettoe Japanese Stable Horse Servants Fundoshi Tokyo XGBB8

This is an original 1897 black and white wood engraving of two Meiji Period Japanese Bettoe. The bettoe were servants who tended to horses, to identify themselves as such, they would be tattooed with marks indicating their jobs and the stables they worked in and wore a fundoshi (loincloth) in the course of their work. These tattoos are unfortunately not present in this representation and the bettoe on the left is wearing a more modest uniform signifying his higher rank in the household.

CONDITION

This 114+ year old Item is rated Near Mint / Very Fine. No creases. No natural defects.No surface rub.No tears. No water damage.

• Product Type: Original Wood Engraving; Black / White
• Grade: Near Mint / Very Fine
• Dimensions: Approximately 4.5 x 7 inches; 11 x 18 cm
• Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
• Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)

Keywords specific to this image: Edo Period, East Asia, Topknot, basin

XGBB8C97