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 - Handsome kabuki scene from the famous play "Sugawara Denju Tenerai Kagami" featuring the beauty Tonami and the scholar Takebe Genzo. A student of the calligrapher Kan Shojo, Genzo was banned from the household after beginning a love affair with their employee, Tonami, whom he later marries. Here, he leans forward with an angry sneer, his brows furrowed. Tonami is on her knees at left with her hands clasped together in prayer. She wears a geometric print kimono tied with a lavender tie-dyed obi. A tobacco set rests on the floor of the platform behind them. A handsome Osaka actor print in the rare full oban size.

Artist - Hidemaro (active circa 1801 - 1818)

Image Size - 14 1/2" x 10 1/8" + left margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical fold near right edge. Slight separation at ends of fold, a few wormholes and holes, repaired. Slight creasing, soiling, and rubbing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.