Kunisada Kabuki Scene from Koharu no Mitsugumi Sakazuki

DescriptionAntique Japanese woodblock print in triptych by the artist Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1864) depicting a scene from the Kabuki play “Koharu no Mitsugumi Sakazuki”. Here, the outlaw murdurer, Shirai Gonpachi (left) is challenged by the famous otokodate (dashing hero), Banzui Chobei (center and with his traditional brown and white plaid fabric). Kunisada was born to a family that owned a ferry boat service allowing him the time and money to devote to art. At an early age, he impressed the great master, Toyokuni I of the Utagawa school. He became his apprentice, officially adopting the name Kunisada around 1807. It was during this time that Kunisada’s book illustrations became popular. He is most famous for his actor portraits, bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) and scenes of life in Edo. Kunisada adopted his master’s name in 1844-1845 becoming Utagawa Toyokuni III. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the time.Age: Edo Period (circa 1850’s)Dimensions: 13 1/2″ high x 29 1/4″ wide (lightly backed and with border 14 1/4″ high x 29″ long)