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.

Tokijiro Rescuing Urazato, 1851 - Interesting kabuki scene of Kasugaya Tokijiro on his way to rescue his lover, the Yoshiwara courtesan Urazato of the Yamanaya. The beauty's employer and his wife tied her up in the snowy courtyard and beat her after discovering her affair with the young man. At left, Tokijiro stealthily climbs over the courtyard fence at left, the beauty tied to the tree below. At right, the lovers' young daughter, Chidori, kneels beside her mother in the snow, her arms stretched out and tied to a bamboo pole. Nice expressive figures in a handsomely detailed setting.

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. Slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.