Three Countries' Ken (Sangoku ken)

by Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Current Status

Three Countries' Ken (Sangoku ken) by Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Original Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861) Japanese Woodblock Print
Three Countries' Ken (Sangoku ken)

Comments - Terrific kabuki image featuring three actors playing a popular hand game called ken. The game was also incorporated as a dance in a few different kabuki plays, resulting in popular prints of the subject. Here, Nakamura Utaemon IV, Ichimura Uzaemon XII, and Seki Sanjuro III pose making various hand gestures, one fellow standing and pointing upwards while the older man at left kneels with his hands facing each other in mirror image. The writing above includes drawings of tiny figures demonstrating moves. A great example of Kuniyoshi's designs featuring ken.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 9 7/8" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Horizontal centerfold. Small repair, creasing throughout, staining. Please see photos for details.

Three Countries' Ken (Sangoku ken) by Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)
Three Countries' Ken (Sangoku ken) by Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

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