Actors with Poems - Terrific kabuki print from an untitled series by Toyokuni III dating from 1861 to 1864. Each print features a half-length portrait of a popular actor in an imagined role, accompanied by a poem in a wood grain cartouche. Gengyo Miyagi designed most of the attractive landscape backgrounds. Dating from the last years of his life, these images demonstrate Toyokuni III's skill in creating expressive and finely nuanced portraits. Many feature luxurious printing touches, such as burnishing or embossing. A fine actor series by the artist, and a wonderful choice for the kabuki enthusiast.

Sawamura Tanosuke III, 1861 - Attractive kabuki portrait of Sawamura Tanosuke III as a young beauty. She wears a black kimono bordered with blossoms, her sleeves crossed before her chest, looking down with a pensive expression as if lost in her thoughts. A white cloth covers her hair, the ends of a few hairpins visible. A crescent moon glows softly above grasses in silhouette behind her. A handsome design with delicate cloth embossing in the scarf and sky.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 9 1/8" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Lightly toned throughout with faint stains in subject and along edges. A few small holes and areas of separation in margins, repaired from reverse. Faint spotting and soiling in subject with one horizontal crease running through subject. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.