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Five Thieves, 1855 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Original Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) Japanese Woodblock Print
Five Thieves, 1855

Comments - Terrific five-panel kabuki print depicting the original "Gonin Otoko," a group of five dandy thieves from Osaka. From left, the actors are Bando Hikosaburo IV as Gokuin Sen'emon, unidentified actor as An no Heibei, Seki Sanjuro III as Hotei Ichiemon, unidentified actor as Kaminari Shokuro, and Nakamura Shikan I as Karigane Bunshichi. Each wears a blue-green kimono bordered with a different blue and white pattern, tied with a yellow obi, and each has a white towel draped over his shoulder or around his neck. At far tight, Karigane Bunshichi grins happily, while next to him, Kaminari Shokuro looks over his shoulder with a worried expression, holding his sleeve to his chest. At far left, Gokuin Sen'emon frowns angrily as he grips the end of his towel. The figures are set against a large black and white checked pattern, creating a bold backdrop for the expressive characters. A great depiction of these five famous roles, rarely seen complete in five panels.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 3/8" x 50" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few small losses at edges, a few wormholes, repaired. Slight soiling, a few vertical folds, a few ink marks and creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Five Thieves, 1855 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Five Thieves, 1855 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

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