Takamizawa's Taisho Era Reprints - With the increase in Western visitors to Japan in the early 20th century and renewed interest in Edo era woodblocks, some of the best publishing houses began to release high quality ukiyo-e reprints. The Takamizawa Publisher produced this beautiful print during the Taisho era (1911 - 1925). These designs were created with the utmost care and great attention to detail, masterfully reproducing color, line work and even wood grain detail. Takamizawa's reprints are a fantastic achievement, and they are considered the finest reprint publisher of the era.

A Special Group - This special group of Takamizawa woodblocks includes the original folders that came with each print, with text in English and Japanese describing the design, and a title slip on the front. These original folders are a rare find! Each print has a Taisho era Takamizawa seal on the reverse. Today, these lovely old prints are valuable and highly sought after. A great choice for collectors interested in these classic images.

Comments - Fantastic portrait of Ichikawa Ebizo (formerly Ichikawa Danjuro V) as Takemura Sadanoshin in the kabuki play "Koi Nyobo Somewake Tazuna." Sadanoshin was engaged by a nobleman as a Noh drama instructor, but he was dismissed over the misconduct of his daughter Shigenoi, who served as a lady's maid and wet-nurse. He takes the dishonor to his family so seriously that while giving his master final instruction in the famous Noh play "Dojoji," he commits suicide while hiding under the temple bell. He looks forward with a slightly anxious expression, his eyes wide and eyebrows raised, the open corner of his upraised lips showing the inside of his mouth. He clasps his hands nervously before him, as if about to make a great pronouncement. The warms colors of his robe and kamishimo contrast nicely with the dark distressed mica ground. A real Sharaku masterwork.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - Print 15 3/4" x 10" + margins as shown; folder 18 1/2" x 13"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Print: Faint toning, very slight soiling. Folder: Slight creasing at edges. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.