Kabuki Signboards, 1858

by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Current Status

Kabuki Signboards, 1858 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Original Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) Japanese Woodblock Print
Kabuki Signboards, 1858

Comments - Terrific triptych depicting scenes from various kabuki plays as displayed on placards or signs hung on a wooden framework with a checked canopy covering them. The image at far right shows the mountain woman Yamauba and the wild boy Kintaro along with an elderly woodsman. The center scene features a drama about the crazed nun Seigen, shown riding in a ferry wearing a tattered robe and hat. A fan-shaped sign above shows a shirabyoshi dancer at Dojoji Temple, while at left, a samurai draws his sword to battle a rogue with a knife clenched between his teeth. Men and women stroll in front of the scenes wearing informal summer kimono, chatting and exchanging glances. A man at right takes a toothpick from his mouth as a beauty smiles at him, while in the center, a woman looks over her shoulder with a dismayed expression, her mouth slightly agape. The left panel includes Matsumoto Koshiro, Sawamura Chojuro, Nakamura Utaemon, Ichikawa Ebizo, Sawamura [?], Ichikawa Ichizo, and Ichikawa Kodanji. The center panel shows Bando Hikosaburo, Bando Shuka, Ichimura Uzaemon, Bando Hikosaburo, Onoe Kikugoro, and Kawarazaki Gonjuro. The right panel features Bando Mitsugoro, Ichikawa [?], Iwai Hanshiro, Ichikawa Danjuro, Nakamura Fukusuke, Iwai Kumesaburo, and Sawamura . A fantastic subject with wonderful color and detail.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 29 1/8" x 14 3/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some light toning at edges. A few small holes repaired from reverse. A couple creases. Please see photos for details. nice overall.

Kabuki Signboards, 1858 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Kabuki Signboards, 1858 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

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