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 - Terrific Osaka kabuki triptych depicting three samurai battling in the countryside. In the center, a samurai in a black kimono hops on one foot as he raises both arms above his head to block a blow from his attacker's pole arm. He grimaces angrily, the fringed hem of his robes swinging as he leaps about. The warrior at right balances one foot atop a tree trunk as he stares ahead, broken arrows protruding from his robes. At left, the third warrior stands with his feet firmly spread and a naginata in hand, frowning angrily. His armor is also pierced with broken arrows and the ground is littered with them, as well. Mountains and rooftops can be seen in the distance beyond the tree trunks, with birds flying across the sky. Wonderful detail in the expressive figures and landscape setting. A fantastic design in oban size, a format rarely seen with Osaka actor prints.

Artist - Kunihiro (active circa 1815 - 1843)

Image Size - 31" x 15" + margin

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Some minor creases near edges. Some light rubbing and soiling as shown. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.