Rare Akira Toriyama Color Illustration Up for Auction
A previously unknown color illustration by Akira Toriyama is being offered at auction, presenting a rare chance for collectors to acquire a piece of manga history.
Details of the Artwork and Auction
The Mandarake Auction lists an "Akira Toriyama Hand-Drawn Color Illustration" depicting Arale Norimaki from Dr. Slump. In the artwork, the playful robot girl stands on the seat of a yellow motorcycle, a motif that links to Toriyama's known interest in bikes. The piece has not appeared publicly in roughly 40 years.
Bidding begins at 3,500,000 yen — about $24,000 — and the online listing indicates under 20 days remain before the sale closes in the first week of September. Observers expect the price to climb as the auction approaches its end.
Context and Background
Mandarake's description places the drawing in the context of Toriyama's mid-1980s fascination with motorcycles. The artist obtained a motorcycle license in 1984 and subsequently discussed and photographed his custom Honda Silkroad in fan and magazine outlets.
The auction house notes Toriyama mentioned customizing his bike in ...