Samurai Battling at a Nobleman's Palace

by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Current Status

Samurai Battling at a Nobleman's Palace by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Original Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899) Japanese Woodblock Print
Samurai Battling at a Nobleman's Palace

Series; Imoseyama Onna Teikin

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.

Imoseyama Onna Teikin - Handsome design from Yoshitaki kabuki series illustrating the play "Imoseyama Onna Teikin" (Imoseyama, an Example of Womanly Virtue)." The prints are full oban size, a format unusual to find in Osaka kabuki prints. Each image features expressive figures, nicely detailed settings, and vibrant color, framed by a purple and white border of interlocking blocks. We've never come across this series before.

Artist - Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 9 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Horizontal centerfold. Slight soiling, a few creases, paper clip rust mark at top corner. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Samurai Battling at a Nobleman's Palace by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)
Samurai Battling at a Nobleman's Palace by Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)

Auction Rules and guidelines

This Auction Falls Under Our Standard Auction Rules and Guidelines

If you are a new bidder, please read the Rules and Guidelines page before bidding.