Nakamura Utaemon IV as Hidari Jingoro and an Actor as an Oyama Doll, 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 Nakamura Utaemon IV as 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 life-size doll 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 - 14 1/4" x 9 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few small holes, repairedl. Slight soiling and rubbing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.