First edition Japanese Meiji Period woodblock print titled "Pubic Reading (Yomitate)" from the series "The Calendar of Events in Edo Theater" co-designed by Adachi Ginko (1874-1897) and Torii Kiyosada (1844-1901). Three editions of this series are known. This print is from the first edition and contains the publisher's information and date of Meiji 30 (1897) 4th month in the left margin. Kiyosada's signature can be found on the billboard at the upper left. This series is unusual in that it depicts various events backstage with the actors, views including the spectators, and scenes around the interior of the theater itself. This image is an interesting view of the stage with the back of the heads of the spectators showing at the bottom section. A description of the scene is in the white cartouche at the top. The series title is at the upper right. Vertical oban print measuring 14 1/8" x 9 3/4". Very good overall condition with excellent color. This print has never been framed or exposed to sunlight. It is not backed and the baren marks are clearly visible on the reverse. There are small losses, stains, and tears to the margin edges. An example of this image can be found in the online collection of the MFA Boston.