Matron, Beauty, and Yakko

by Sadanobu II (1848 - 1940)

Current Status

Matron, Beauty, and Yakko by Sadanobu II (1848 - 1940)

Original Sadanobu II (1848 - 1940) Japanese Woodblock Print
Matron, Beauty, and Yakko

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 - Handsome kabuki scene of a confrontation between two women. The beauty in the center throws her hand up in the air as the stares at the matron at left with a worried expression. The matron glares back at her angrily as she holds a tall yellow court cap in her upraised hand. She wears a green tunic patterned with medallions, and has a samurai sword at her side. At right, an agitated yakko or low-ranking servant has drawn his sword, watching the pair closely. His outer robe with a striped collar has been pushed down to the waist, revealing a red kimono decorated with a phoenix with long tail feathers. Colorful flowers fill the garden behind them against a deep red sky. Nice, large expressive figures. A handsome Osaka kabuki print in the unusual oban format.

Artist - Sadanobu II (1848 - 1940)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 27 1/2" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. A few spots. Slight toning. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Matron, Beauty, and Yakko by Sadanobu II (1848 - 1940)
Matron, Beauty, and Yakko by Sadanobu II (1848 - 1940)