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 - Great Osaka kabuki scene from the play "Edo Miyage Inazuma Zoshi" of two sworn enemies accidentally meeting each other one night in the Yoshiwara. The disgraced samurai Nagoya Sanza is surprised to encounter his sworn enemy, Fuwa Banzaemon, after their scabbards brush in passing. Sanza was banished from his clan after a valuable scroll in his care was stolen by the evil Banzaemon. At left, Sanza reacts with rage when he recognizes his foe after snatching off his hat. He wears a blue kimono patterned with swallows flying in the rain. At right, Banzaemon grimaces angrily at his enemy, lifting his own hat high above his head. His blue kimono features a design of red lightening and swirling thunderclouds. Behind them, blossoming cherry trees frame the night sky. From left, the actors are Onoe Kikugoro III and Arashi Rikan II. Wonderfully expressive figures in a handsome setting, in an unusual oban size.

Artist - Ashiyuki (active 1814 - 1835)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 20 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels. A few thinning spots and a few small holes, repaired. Slight soiling and rubbing, a few creases. Please see photos for details.