Ushiwakamaru Serenading Princess Joruri, 1865

by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Current Status

Ushiwakamaru Serenading Princess Joruri, 1865 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Original Chikanobu (1838 - 1912) Japanese Woodblock Print
Ushiwakamaru Serenading Princess Joruri, 1865

Comments - Lovely kabuki scene of the young samurai Ushiwakamaru, later known as Minamoto no Yoshitsune, serenading the Princess Joruri with his flute. According to the story, Ushiwakamaru came across her home while traveling, and catching a glimpse of her beauty, became entranced by the young maiden. He played the flute outside her garden gate, capturing her attention, and the pair fell in love. Here, the beauty sits at a koto in her elegantly house, looking wistfully toward her suitor, clasping her hands together before her. She wears a red kimono patterned with cherry blossoms, the fabric trailing onto the floor around her. In the center, a matron smiles at him over her shoulder, while holding her hand out in a stopping gesture to Joruri. A full moon glows in the evening sky, framed by a flowering cherry tree. A beautiful design from this charming story, attractively colored, with expressive figures. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Kuzo III, Nakamura Fukusuke II, Nakamura Kamenojo I, and Sawamura Tanosuke III as Joruri-hime. Chikanobu did very few kabuki triptychs, so this is a rarely seen subject. A nice choice for a collector.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 29" + margins as shown

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

Ushiwakamaru Serenading Princess Joruri, 1865 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Ushiwakamaru Serenading Princess Joruri, 1865 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Auction Rules and guidelines

This Auction Falls Under Our Standard Auction Rules and Guidelines

If you are a new bidder, please read the Rules and Guidelines page before bidding.