Sharaku - Not much is known about the woodblock print artist Toshusai Sharaku, who specialized in kabuki portraits. His career spanned only ten months from 1794 to 1795, with around 150 prints known. Unlike his contemporaries, Sharaku did not idealize his subjects, instead creating realistic portrayals that were not always flattering, and his prints were not a popular success at the time. His best works convey a rare perceptivity, with a psychological insight and a deep understanding of the dramatic nature of the roles and the actors he depicted. Sharaku left behind a body of masterworks of ukiyo-e kabuki portraiture that remained unrecognized until a century after his death.

A Special Group - We recently acquired a special group of fine old Sharaku reprints. These are the best Sharaku reprints we have found, expertly printed with crisp line work, and shimmering distressed mica backgrounds that emulate the look of an original with a nice sense of age. If these iconic kabuki designs appeal to you, bid now, before they are gone!

Comments - Wonderful Sharaku portrait of Tanimura Torazo as Washizuka Yaheiji, the wicked servant of the Yurugi family in the kabuki drama "Koi Nyobo Somewake Tazuna." He grips the handle of his katana, scowling and biting his lower lip, his face contorted with rage. He wears a black kamishimo over a light brown kimono, the shoulder and sleeve bearing the Torazo family crest. A fine expressive image with a subtle silver mica background.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 9 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Paper remnants on reverse at corners from previous mounting. Small thinning spot, repaired. Slight toning, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.