Actor as Matsuemon

by Shigeharu (1803 - 1853)

Current Status

Actor as Matsuemon by Shigeharu (1803 - 1853)

Original Shigeharu (1803 - 1853) Japanese Woodblock Print
Actor as Matsuemon

Osaka Prints - Produced in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, Osaka prints or kamigata-e are instantly distinguishable from typical Edo ukiyo-e. A major difference is the choice of subject matter. Osaka prints were nearly always portraits of actors or kabuki scenes. In contrast, Edo print subjects included beauties, landscapes, nature scenes, warriors, and historic events, in addition to kabuki.

Distinctly different artistic styles also emerged in Edo and Osaka in the 18th and 19th century, resulting in certain recognizable characteristics for each area. Osaka prints feature more subtle, serious figures, reflecting the wagoto or soft style of acting prevalent in the area, along with distinctive facial expressions. The aragato or brash manner of acting popular in Edo influenced print designs towards bolder images of heroism and military prowess.

Much like the style of the prints, the demand for ukiyo-e in the cities of Osaka and Edo also varied. Osaka produced far fewer ukiyo-e designs than Edo did. As a consequence, Osaka prints are rarer and also some of the highest quality prints made in the 19th century, with many featuring deluxe techniques such as burnishing or embossing. Osaka prints are a rare and wonderful collecting area of Japanese woodblocks.

Comments - Terrific Osaka kabuki portrait of an actor in the role of the boatman Matsuemon, who is actually the Minamoto warrior Higuchi Jiro Kanemitsu, a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshinaka. After his Yoshinaka's death, Higuchi rescued his master's son and escaped disguised as a boatman. Here, Matsuemon perches in a pine tree, unhappily spying the Genji troops in the distance that are coming after him. A rare full oban Osaka print, beautifully composed, with fine bokashi shading in the night sky.

Artist - Shigeharu (1803 - 1853)

Image Size - 14 3/8" x 10"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Very slight paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. Slight toning and soiling, spot, vertical fold at left edge. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Actor as Matsuemon by Shigeharu (1803 - 1853)
Actor as Matsuemon by Shigeharu (1803 - 1853)

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