Osaka Prints - Produced in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, Osaka prints or kamigata-e are instantly distinguishable from typical Edo ukiyo-e. A major difference is the choice of subject matter. Osaka prints were nearly always portraits of actors or kabuki scenes. In contrast, Edo print subjects included beauties, landscapes, nature scenes, warriors, and historic events, in addition to kabuki.

Distinctly different artistic styles also emerged in Edo and Osaka in the 18th and 19th century, resulting in certain recognizable characteristics for each area. Osaka prints feature more subtle, serious figures, reflecting the wagoto or soft style of acting prevalent in the area, along with distinctive facial expressions. The aragato or brash manner of acting popular in Edo influenced print designs towards bolder images of heroism and military prowess.

Much like the style of the prints, the demand for ukiyo-e in the cities of Osaka and Edo also varied. Osaka produced far fewer ukiyo-e designs than Edo did. As a consequence, Osaka prints are rarer and also some of the highest quality prints made in the 19th century, with many featuring deluxe techniques such as burnishing or embossing. Osaka prints are a rare and wonderful collecting area of Japanese woodblocks.

Comments - Fantastic Osaka kabuki triptych depicting two samurai in white robes battling an enemy as they seek vengeance. At left, one of the samurai tumbles backwards to the ground as his opponent grabs the end of his spear. Their intended victim grimaces angrily, thrusting his hand out at his side with his fingers spread. The samurai at right grips a naginata with a grim frown, broken arrows protruding from his torn kimono. Orange rays of sun radiate across the sky behind a row of trees lining the road, with birds fluttering above dark streaks of clouds. A lively scene with wonderfully expressive figures and a handsome landscape setting. A fine example of kamigata-e or prints from the Osaka region, in a rarely seen oban format.

Artist - Yoshikuni (active circa 1813 - 1831)

Image Size - 31" x 14 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. A couple small holes repaired from reverse. Some light rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.