Description: This stamp is a 100-yen (100) definitive issue from the Post-War Empire of Japan (日本郵便). Printed entirely in a vibrant vermilion-orange ink, the visual layout highlights Ukai, the traditional Japanese method of master fishermen using trained cormorants to catch river sweetfish (ayu). The illustration features a master cormorant fisherman (Usho) clad in traditional straw skirts standing at the bow of a long wooden boat. He is shown expertly handling the multiple guide leashes attached to diving cormorants pluming beneath the surface. Hanging over the edge of the vessel is an iron basket holding a blazing bonfire (kagari-bi), which throws out columns of high-contrast smoke and light to lure the fish. The classic country inscription "日本郵便" scales across the upper left edge, while the large numerical denomination "100" grounds the lower right corner. A heavy black ink postal cancel curves broadly over the surface face.
Circa: 1953-1960s
Condition: Used - Hinged
Notes:
The fishing method captured on this plate dates back over 1,300 years. The Usho portrayed on the stamp hold prestigious, hereditary licenses overseen directly by the Imperial Household Agency of Japan, with the annual catches of sweetfish sent as an official tribute to the Emperor.
Cormorants possess a highly unique relationship with their handlers. A specialized fiber ring is looped gently near the base of the bird's throat, allowing them to easily swallow small fish but temporarily holding larger catch inside their gullets until retrieved by the master fisherman.