Toyokuni I's Kabuki Portraits - The great ukiyo-e master Toyokuni I is best known for his expressive kabuki designs. His portraits were part of a new trend in creating actor images that more closely resembled the real actor as seen on stage, rather than the idealized portraits that predominated the genre earlier. Toyokuni I dominated the field of actor portraits for nearly three decades, creating bold, dynamic images in his own recognizable style.

Comments - Terrific kabuki portrait of Onoe Kikugoro III as the courtesan Hakubai in a dance drama that featured seven role changes for the actor. She looks over her shoulder with a sneer as she holds a long letter with one hand, the paper trailing over her kimono to the floor. Her outer robe features camellia blossoms and falling snow against a night sky, worn over a tie-dyed red under robe. Her hair falls loosely over her back, adorned with tortoiseshell combs and hairpins. An expressive figure, with a pink and white border of cherry blossoms across the top of the page.

Artist - Toyokuni I (1769 - 1825)

Image Size - 14 7/8" x 10 1/4"

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Paper remnants on reverse at top edge from previous mounting. A couple tears and edges and holes, repaired. Creasing throughout. Please see photos for details.