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 Osaka kabuki print depicting a woman dancing as a young samurai plays a drum. She strikes a pose at left, lifting her hand drum above her head, while the samurai points his drumstick accusingly at the warrior leaning against his spear at right. A beauty kneels on the floor before him, smiling and holding her sleeves up at her sides. The room is lines with panels illustrated with cranes, and a niche at the back of the room holds a scroll and a red lacquer stand. Includes embossing in the white kimono trim, and touches of metallic pigment in the kimono fabrics. An interesting subject with nice architectural detail.

Artist - Munehiro (active circa 1848 - 1867)

Image Size - 9 3/4" x 14 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two attached panels, backed with paper. Wormholes, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases, indented marks in right panel, paper slightly curled. Please see photos for details.