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.

Ichimura Kakitsu IV as Nagao Kagekatsu, 1861 - Handsome kabuki portrait of Ichimura Kakitsu IV as the samurai Nagao Kagekatsu, the son of the great warrior Nagao Kenshin. Here, he lifts his hat as he looks suspiciously to the side with a tight-lipped frown. He wears a gray striped robe with a beautiful design of dragons on the black collar over a matching coat and kimono in a green geometric print. His thick hair is pulled back into a thick topknot with a bushy end, tied with a white cord. Nicely detailed with embossing in the white cord and the sky and the white clumps of snow covering the bamboo in the background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 8 7/8" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Lightly toned throughout with a few small holes and areas of thinning along edges and corners, all repaired from reverse. Minor rubbing and spotting in subject with areas of soiling in margins. One horizontal crease running through subject. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.