Actors with Poems - Terrific kabuki print from an untitled series by Toyokuni III dating from 1861 to 1864. Each print features a half-length portrait of a popular actor in an imagined role, accompanied by a poem in a wood grain cartouche. Gengyo Miyagi designed most of the attractive landscape backgrounds. Dating from the last years of his life, these images demonstrate Toyokuni III's skill in creating expressive and finely nuanced portraits. Many feature luxurious printing touches, such as burnishing or embossing, including delicate allover cloth embossing in the backgrounds. A fine actor series by the artist, and a wonderful choice for the kabuki enthusiast.

Sawamura Tanosuke III as the Blind Beggar Otano, 1862 - Interesting kabuki portrait of the blind beauty Otano, who earns her living by playing the shamisen and begging. Tilting her head to the side, she throws one hand up in the air. One sleeve of her intricately patterned gray and black kimono is pushed down to the waist, revealing a red tie-dyed under robe with a floral design and a plum colored collar. A blue and white tie-dyed cloth is wrapped about her head. Nicely detailed.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 1/4" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Small losses at edges, large thinning area, repaired. Creasing. Please see photos for details.