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 beauty and a samurai in the snow in front of a cave. The samurai looks up with alarm as a red flame appears in front of the beauty, a sign of a supernatural occurrence taking place. He holds a scroll above a low table with additional scrolls on it, a heavy kimono patterned with a dragon draped over his shoulders. The young woman smiles sweetly, her hands tucked beneath her kimono against her chest for warmth, her long hair trailing over her back. A great design in an unusual full oban format for kamigata-e or prints from the Osaka region. Sadakage worked in both Edo and Osaka, and his designs are rarely seen on the market.

Artist - Sadakage (active circa 1818 - 1844)

Image Size - 15" x 20 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. Small hole, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.