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 - Interesting Osaka kabuki scene from the play "Iwami Shigetaro," with the title character at right raising a wooden practice sword high above his head as he frightens three commoners at left. The samurai appears worried, scowling unhappily, his two swords at his side and an inro or stacking container hanging from his waist. The fellow at left scrambles backwards in an attempt to get away, throwing his hand out defensively. Behind him another man crawls on the ground as the man behinds him turns to flee. A blossoming cherry tree frames the scene, with delicate petals drifting down through the sky. The left panel includes Kirishima Koroku as Saito Shingo and Ichikawa Sanzo II as Katsurakai. At right, Onoe Tamizo plays Iwami Shigetaro. Nice expressive figures in an attractive setting.

Artist - Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two attached panels, backed with paper. Horizontal center fold in each panel. A few small wormholes and thinning spots, repaired. Soiling, a few creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details.