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.

The Beauty Osan Turning into a Fowl, 1847 - 1852 - Terrific illustration from the kabuki play commonly known as " Sansho Dayu" showing the evil elderly samurai Sansho Dayu, who murdered the head of the Iwaki family. A slaver steals the Iwaki children and sells them to Sansho Dayu. Iwaki's loyal retainer Kanamenosuke tried to rescue the children, but was captured and sentenced to death. On the day of the execution, Sansho's beautiful daughter, Osan, who had fallen in love with Kanamenosuke, turned into a fowl as the sun rose and chewed through the ropes binding the prisoner, setting him free. At left, Osan begins the transformation into a hen, her sleeves becoming feathery wings. Sansho watches with an angry grimace. The faithful Kanamenosuke is shown at left, his shoulders bound with rope. A great scene with expressive figures and beautiful detail, including a burnished pattern on the black kimono and burnishing on Osan's black obi.

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. Faint vertical centerfold. A couple small holes, repaired. Slight toning, a few light stains. Please see photos for details. Good overall.