A Special Group - In today's auctions we are pleased to offer a special group of outstanding kabuki portraits by Natori Shunsen, considered one of the masters of shin-hanga actor prints. These fantastic designs are all from his "Creative Prints, Collected Portraits of Shunsen," a series lavishly published by Watanabe in a limited edition of only 150 prints. This rare series includes some of Shunsen's most highly regarded designs. Each woodblock comes with its original paper folder with title slip listing the actor's name and role, a rare find and a great addition for a collector. Don't miss this opportunity to add a rare shin-hanga masterwork by Natori Shunsen to your own collection!

Morita Kanya XIII as Kajiwara Genta Kagesue, 1928 - Fantastic kabuki portrait of the actor Morita Kanya XIII in the role of Kajiwara Genta Kagesue in the play "Hiragana Seisuiki." He looks to the side out of the corners of his eyes as he raises his arms, a fan in one hand, his lips firmly set. He wears a bright blue kamishimo over a red and white patterned kimono, a court cap tied under his chin with a purple and white braided cord, with a sprig of blossoms tucked into the front. Detailed with delicate embossing in the braided cord and along the side of the nose. A moving and sensitive portrait from Shunsen's famous series. A wonderful choice for a kabuki or shin-hanga collector.

Publisher - Watanabe, with embossed "Watanabe ko" seal at center right just above shoulder
Sealed - Signed Shunsen with red leaf seal in subject, with artist's red stamp of approval at lower left corner

Artist - Natori Shunsen (1886 - 1960)

Image Size - Image 14 7/8" x 10" + margins as shown; folder 17" x 12"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Light toning, faint crease. Print is mounted to folder at top corners, could be removed. Nice overall. Folder: Slight toning and spotting, soiling, creasing at edges, small rubbed spot on reverse. Please see photos for details.