One Hundred Roles of Baiko - In 1893, Kunichika was commissioned to create the series "One Hundred Roles of Baiko," chronicling the diverse characters played by the famous actor Onoe Kikugoro V, whose pen name was "Baiko." These fantastic prints feature a large portrait of Kikugoro V in one of his major roles, along with a small scene showing a supporting actor from the same play. These exquisite images were printed to the highest standards, using expensive techniques and materials such as burnishing, embossing, and mica. Beautifully drawn and composed, each print demonstrates Kunichika's skill in creating expressive characters, bringing each role to life on the page. A great choice for a kabuki enthusiast or Kunichika collector.

Onoe Kikugoro V as the Ghost of Okome and Onoe Kikunosuke as Shinsaburo, 1893 - Terrific kabuki design showing Baiko in a female role as the spirit of the maid Okome carrying a peony lantern, from the famous ghost story "The Peony Lantern" (Botan Doro). The beauty Otsuyu fell in love with the handsome young Shinsaburo. After she and her maidservant died suddenly, they visited the samurai each night as ghosts. He was unaware, however, that they had died, and the story ends tragically after he becomes romantically involved with the ghost of his former love. Dressed in gray, the servant grimly carries the lantern, a supernatural flame fluttering above her head. In the inset above, Onoe Kikunosuke plays Shinsaburo, peeking out from under the mosquito netting at the arrival of the ghostly visitors. A fantastic image from this dramatic tale, detailed with burnishing on the black obi.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 9" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Slight toning. Some prints have slight soiling or a few small spots. Please see photos for details. Generally in good condition overall.