Toyokuni III's Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido - Toyokuni III's 1852 series "The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido" pairs kabuki portraits with the stations along the famous Tokaido Road. Each design features a half-length figure in the foreground, with a border of clouds separating the actor from the landscape above. Interestingly, the title cartouche of each print is framed by different objects related to the kabuki character or play, including armor and weapons, household objects, flowers, horse equipment, and traveler's clothing and baggage. The large expressive characters are beautifully drawn and detailed, with fine line work in the hair and soft bokashi shading in the backgrounds.

The exact number of prints for the series is unclear, because two prints exist for some stations, and some intermediate stations are also included. Where there are two designs of the same subject, the background landscape continues across the two prints. This handsome series proved extremely popular when released, and remains a favorite of collectors today.

Sakanoshita: Matsumoto Koshiro VI as Jirozo - Dramatic depiction of the actor Matsumoto Koshiro VI as Jirozo. His arms spread wide, he looks to the side with a concerned grimace, biting his lower lip. The short wings of hair framing his face and his red stage makeup give him an unusual appearance. He wears a blue and white tie-dyed shirt over a black undergarment, the sleeves of his plaid kimono pushed down around his waist. Mountains rise in the background, with two narrow waterfalls rushing over the cliffside at left. A bold image with real graphic appeal and fine shading in the background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 9 5/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Tiny losses at corners, one small thinning spot, repaired. A few creases, slight soiling, slight rubbing near bottom edge. Please see photos for details. Good overall.