Smash Hits on the Kabuki Stage - Toyokuni III's series "Smash Hits on the Kabuki Stage" features group portraits of the major roles from popular kabuki plays. There is great interaction between the expressive figures, with careful attention paid to clothing and hairstyles. A simulated black lacquer frame borders each image, and some designs include deluxe treatments such as embossing. The Edo-Tokyo Museum has many subjects from this series in its collection. A handsome and seldom seen series in an attractive format. 

Ichimura Kakitsu IV and Sawamura Tossho II, 1863 - Handsome kabuki double portrait featuring Ichimura Kakitsu IV and Sawamura Tossho II. The seated samurai holds a woven hat in his hand, looking up over his shoulder with a grim frown. His companion stares to the side unhappily as he fans himself. He wears a matching blue coat and kimono patterned with chrysanthemums and grasses, tucked into yellow hakama pants with a cloud print. Cherry blossoms frame a blue sky overhead, and the image is bordered with a simulated black lacquer frame. A nice subject from this rarely seen series.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 9" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Thinning at two edges, a few holes, repaired. Creasing and soiling, faint toning. Please see photos for details.