Kabuki Actors as Otsu-e

by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Current Status

Kabuki Actors as Otsu-e by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Original Kunichika (1835 - 1900) Japanese Woodblock Print
Kabuki Actors as Otsu-e

Comments - Terrific kabuki triptych featuring actors as characters from otsu-e, traditional simple folk paintings sold to travelers in Otsu on Lake Biwa near Kyoto. From left, the actors are Kataoka Gado III as the standard bearer, Nakamura Fukusuke IV as the Wisteria Maiden, Nakamura Shikan IV as a man trying to catch a catfish with a gourd (a Zen riddle--how do you catch a catfish with a gourd?), and Ichikawa Gonjuro I as a falconer. The beauty wears a black lacquer hat and carries a blossoming wisteria branch over her shoulder. She smiles as she looks down, while the young falconer at right watches her with a slight frown, his bird perched upon his hand. A great depiction of these memorable figures, detailed with lively color, burnishing in the black kimono, hat, obi, and kimono collar, and bokashi shading in the background.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 28" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few holes, a few small tears at edges, repaired. Slight soiling and ink offsetting, light staining at edge. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Kabuki Actors as Otsu-e by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)
Kabuki Actors as Otsu-e by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

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