Katsuji Matsumoto was a Japanese illustrator  and shojo manga artist. He started his career an as illustrator at the age of 17.  He contributed illustrations to numerous popular girls’ novels and magazines.  He became one of the most influential Japanese illustrator in the early and mid 20th century and was named a pioneer of kawaii, the culture of cuteness in Japan.  He was a prolific illustrator of children’s books and created merchandise for babies, small children, and girls. The Gallery Katsuji Matsumoto in Tokyo is managed by his surviving children. There you can see many originals as well as prints and products from pre- and post-WWII era.

Images:  Courtesy of various sources.