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 scene of a traveling beauty stopping for a rest atop a hill. Her hand rests protectively on her child's shoulder as she looks back at her servant with a frown. The yakko kneels on the ground, scowling unhappily, a large black wicker trunk strapped to his back. He holds his hat in hand as her turns his head away, looking suspiciously out of the corners of his eyes. The woman wears a black kimono bordered with blue flowers and delicate scrolls. A pine tree frames a view of a house in the distance and the ocean beyond, with waves rolling onto the beach below. A great design with attractive color and detail, in a rarely seen oban format.

Artist - Shigeharu (1803 - 1853)

Image Size - 14 3/8" x 19"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. A few small holes, repaired. Slight creasing and soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.