by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) and Kiyomitsu II (1787 - 1868)
Series; Square Pictures in Old and New Style
Sculpture Coming to Life, 1852 - Handsome kabuki print from a series designed by Toyokuni III and Kiyomitsu II. This scene illustrates the legend of the sculptor Hidari Jingoro. Possibly based on a true character, Hidari Jingoro was a skilled carpenter and sculptor during the early Edo era. He once carved a beautiful woman so lifelike, that it actually began to move as he sat admiring it. The bottom portrait shows the artist looking up in disbelief, a red lacquer cup of sake in hand as he watches his creation come to life. He scratches his head as he frowns, his brows furrowed as he stares. The statue appears in the top inset, her hair pulled back into a sleek style popular during an earlier time period. She wears a dark plum kimono with a floral print over a red tie-dyed robe and light red under robe. Her red lips are slightly open but there is something still stiff about her manner. An attractive design from this famous story, with a lovely color palette of rich tones.
Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) and Kiyomitsu II (1787 - 1868)
Image Size - 13 5/8" x 9 1/2" + margins
Condition - With excellent color and detail. Lightly toned throughout with a few faint stains in subject. Slight soiling and creasing throughout with some minor rubbing near edges. Some small pinpoint holes along right-hand edge, repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.
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