Three Samurai

by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Current Status

Three Samurai by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Original Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899) Japanese Woodblock Print
Three Samurai

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 triptych depicting three samurai. The warrior at left holds a flower-shaped mirror in his outstretched hand, looking over his shoulder at his companions with sober expression. The man in the center wears a boldly patterned vest over a red kimono and pants and a suit of armor, a naginata in hand. The samurai at right has a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other. They stand on the edge of the shore, with a panoramic view of the water behind them and mountains beyond. A great design with vibrant color, nicely detailed with burnishing in the black kimono, the black shoes, and the black fur chaps.

Artist - Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Image Size - 9 3/4" x 20 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Horizontal centerfold in each panel. A few small holes and thinning spots, repaired. Slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Three Samurai by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)
Three Samurai by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

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