Maya no Souretsu

Maya's Funeral Procession, dating back to 1972, showcases Ichijo's unique style that markedly differs from her later works. Here, her art blends the rapidly evolving shoujo style, still bearing influences of Osamu Tezuka's designs, with a blockier Gothic horror aesthetic reminiscent of woodcuts. The artwork features solid blacks and bright whites, with some stippling and cross-shading, all appearing hand-drawn rather than screen-toned. The panel layouts are particularly stunning. As Reina travels to her family's new country house, she notices a tall, dark, and striking woman lurking in the shadows. Feeling neglected by her parents, Reina becomes entranced by the enigmatic Maya. However, family secrets threaten to dash any hopes Reina has for happiness. This manga is one of the earliest examples of shoujo-ai (girls' love or lesbian romance) and embodies an over-the-top Gothic melodrama that could easily fit into a collection by Edgar Allan Poe. (Source: coffeeandink)