One Hundred Roles of Baiko - In 1893, Kunichika was commissioned to create the series "One Hundred Roles of Baiko," chronicling the diverse characters played by the famous actor Onoe Kikugoro V, whose pen name was "Baiko." These fantastic prints feature a large portrait of Kikugoro V in one of his major roles, along with a small scene showing a supporting actor from the same play. These exquisite images were printed to the highest standards, using expensive techniques and materials such as burnishing, embossing, and mica. Beautifully drawn and composed, each print demonstrates Kunichika's skill in creating expressive characters, bringing each role to life on the page. A great choice for a kabuki enthusiast or Kunichika collector.

Courtesan Yugiri - Handsome portrait of Baiko as the courtesan Yugiri of the Yoshidaya Teahouse, looking up with a sly smile. Her sweetheart, Fuiya Izaemon, who has been disinherited by his family because of his love for her, is shown in the inset above, played by Nakamura Sojuro. She wears an elegant kimono with what looks like a three-dimensional rooster over the shoulders, a pipe in one hand as she tucks the other inside the front of her robe. Her hair is arranged in two large loops, adorned with many hairpins and combs, with a purple sash knotted around her forehead. Izaemon frowns down at her, jealous of her clients at the teahouse, wearing a robe with an unusual pattern of kanji characters. Beautifully colored and detailed with embossing in the white kimono trim and the purple sash.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 9" x 13 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Faint toning and soiling, offsetting, a few creases. Please see photos for details.