Toyokuni III's Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido - Toyokuni III's 1852 series "The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido" pairs kabuki portraits with the stations along the famous Tokaido Road. Each design features a half-length figure in the foreground, with a border of clouds separating the actor from the landscape above. Interestingly, the title cartouche of each print is framed by different objects related to the kabuki character or play, including armor and weapons, household objects, flowers, horse equipment, and traveler's clothing and baggage. The large expressive characters are beautifully drawn and detailed, with fine line work in the hair and soft bokashi shading in the backgrounds.

The exact number of prints for the series is unclear, because two prints exist for some stations, and some intermediate stations are also included. Where there are two designs of the same subject, the background landscape continues across the two prints. This handsome series proved extremely popular when released, and remains a favorite of collectors today.

Miya: Ichikawa Danjuro VIII as Kagekiyo - Terrific portrait of the actor Ichikawa Danjuro VIII in the role of Kagekiyo, a general of the Heike Clan who was captured and imprisoned in a cave. He eventually frees himself from the prison, using a stone to break through the wooden beams blocking the entrance. He is shown here striking a defiant pose, his arms firmly folded across his chest, wearing voluminous robes over his suit of armor. His stylized flaring wig, red and blue stage makeup, and hair forming a halo above his head give him an imposing appearance. The landscape above shows horse racing during a religious festival at Atsuta Shrine in Miya. A fantastic, bold design with real graphic appeal. A great choice from this fine series.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 10 1/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. A few small holes in subject, repaired from reverse. Light fading and staining along left and right edges. Faint spotting and soiling in subject. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.