6 mm Watanabe Reprint - This beautiful woodblock was published by the Watanabe Company and bears the important Watanabe round 6 mm seal. These old Watanabe prints are some of the finest woodblock reprints ever done. Watanabe began using the 6 mm seal after World War II ended, and it was in use from 1946 to 1957. These terrific Watanabe reprints are a wonderful way to collect a masterwork from the Edo era at an affordable price.

Comments - Interesting kabuki scene from the play "Yoritomo Gunbai Kagami" of the two lovers Wanya Kyubei and Matsuyama eloping. Ichimura Kamazo portrays the merchant Wanya, scowling unhappily as he holds an umbrella over the lovely courtesan Matsuyama, played by Nakamura Kiyosaburo. This is an example of a benizuri-e, a "crimson" print usually rendered in shades of pink and green. A nice image from the early years of color woodblock prints.

Artist - Toyonobu (1711-1785)

Image Size - 17 1/8" x 12 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight creasing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.