Horizontal Oban Kabuki Prints by Toyokuni III - Handsome design from an untitled series of horizontal kabuki prints by Toyokuni III dating from 1847 - 1852. The horizontal oban format is an interesting departure from the more commonly seen vertical oban actor prints, allowing Toyokuni III to create detailed settings for the characters. These images provide a nice context for the interaction between the figures. Some prints feature deluxe publishing treatments such as burnishing or embossing. An interesting complement to Toyokuni III's more well-known vertical kabuki designs.

Scene from Narukami (The Thunder God), 1851 - The play "Narukami" tells the story of the lovely Princess Taema and the wicked priest Narukami, who imprisoned the dragon god in a waterfall, causing a terrible drought. Princess Taema plied him with wine until he fell into a stupor and revealed the secret of how to release the dragon god and end the drought. Detailed with embossing on the priest's white kimono.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 9 1/4" x 13 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. Small hole, repaired. Slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.