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 portrait of a nobleman standing in a room with one hand resting atop his sword, looking down with a sorrowful expression. He wears a purple kamishimo with a band of cherry blossoms and waves across the pants over a red kimono, the sleeves bordered with pink and green diamonds and egrets in flight. His long pants trail beneath his feet onto the floor around him. A fine reed blind hangs overhead, and the verandah is open to the night air. An expressive figure.

Artist - 19th century artist (not read)

Image Size - 9 5/8" x 7" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Creasing, soiling, and rubbing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Shopping Fuji Arts Clearance-

We sell thousands of clearance prints every year in our three ultra-low price categories. Start collecting, purchase an inexpensive print, or discover something special in Fuji Arts Clearance. Notable collectors worldwide shop the clearance regularly.

What prints are in Fuji Arts Clearance?

- Prints that have moved through our auctions and will sell below cost.
- Overstocked prints.
- Prints with condition issues.

Use the item page and photos to shop clearance. We don’t offer support for clearance purchasing (additional photos or enhanced identifications). All available information is on the item page. Clearance prints are final sale.

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