NISHIKAWA Sukenobu / 西川祐信

Ukiyo-e painter, printmaker, illustrator. Born and lived in Kyoto. First a pupil of Kano Eino (or of his son, Kano Eikei); then studied under Tosa Mitsusuke; finally turned to ukiyo-e, studying the work of Yoshida Hambei. An important member of the Kyoto ukiyo-e school, enjoying a great reputation in his lifetime. An immense output, consisting aimost entirely of fine illustrated books and albums published in Osaka and Kyoto from 1710 until his death; also produced a number of paintings and prints. His everyday scenes of bijin are all done with the delicacy and quiet grace typical of the Kyoto ukiyo-e. His books illustrate historical scenes and legendary events.

Roberts, Laurance, P. "A Dictionary of Japanese Artists", John Weatherhill Inc., New York, 1980, p. 166