LARGE JAPANESE PYROGRAVURE SURIMONO PRINT BY RYOMIN. 1850S. EX. HENRI VEVER COLLECTION – SOTHEBY’S These types of rare prints are sometimes referred to as ‘pyrogravures’ as the designs are burnt on to the paper. How it was done is a question of speculation. Perhaps the design is printed from an un-inked block and the details burnt onto the paper with a hot metal tool. However, another possible explanation is that the whole thing was done freehand and the absence of burn marks on the reverse would tend to support this theory. If this was indeed the case, then only one example would be possible. As far as we are aware there is no mention of these curiosities in English language reference books. The turtle is a potent symbol of longevity and good luck etc. and consequently a very popular motif in surimono design. The printing is on heavy quality surimono paper. 53cm x 40cm. This large surimono print bears the seal of the ‘Henri Vever Collection’. Provenance: Purchased from the 4th Vever Sale at Sotheby’s on 22nd March 1978, Lot 362 by the late Brian Page (1938-2018), the well-known Oriental art and antiques dealer from Brighton.