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 illustration from the play "Genji Moyo Furisode Hinagata" of Ashikaga Jiro no kimi stopping at the house of a beauty, an episode from the "Asagao" or "Morning Glories" chapter of the beloved "Tale of Genji." The young nobleman stands beside his palanquin at left, watching with a rather disappointed expression as his retainer crouches before a beauty, explaining that his master would like to meet her. Instead, the smiling woman offers him a few morning glory blossoms on a folding fan rather than asking him in. At right, Shinonome eavesdrops from around the corner, an alarmed expression on her face, her eyes wide. Morning glories twine around the garden fence, and pieces of fabric are stretched out to dry on a slanted board at lower right. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Danjuro VIII, Ichikawa Komazo VII as Akamatsu Taro, Otani Tomomatsu I as Korekichi, Bando Shuka I as Tasogare, and Ichikawa Kuzo II. An attractive design with a nicely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 27 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few small holes, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases and small spots. Please see photos for details. Good overall.