The Keicho Era (1596 - 1615) - Lovely portrait of the beauty Izumo no Okuni, the legendary founder of kabuki theater, from Kiyochika's series depicting women from different historic eras. According to folklore, Okuni served as a shrine maiden at Izumo Shrine, and performed dances in Kyoto to solicit funds for the temple. Her allegedly sensuous style of dancing came to be labeled as "kabuki." Here, she looks over her shoulder, her lips slightly open, the hilt of a sword sticking up before her. She wears a black kimono with a beautiful burnished diamond pattern, with colorful patches of flowers and pine branches, over a violet under robe. Her hair is pulled back into a shaped bun, tied with a rose colored sash. At right, musicians accompany the performance, playing drums and flute, while audience watches at left, smiling happily. An interesting depiction of this historic figure, and a striking design.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Large tear at edge. A few spots, slight rubbing at edges, faint ink offsetting. Please see photos for details. Good overall.