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.

Head Identification Ceremony - Interesting kabuki scene from the tale of two brothers who are enemies because one is loyal to the shogun and the other is a rebel. Here, the samurai Sasaki Moritsuna must identify the severed head of his rebel brother, Takastuna, before the shogun's representative, Hojo Tokimasa, who sits on a stool at right wearing a magnificent helmet topped with a flowing white wig. Moritsuna kneels beside the cylindrical box containing the head, a strange expression on his face. At left, Takatsuna's wife, Kagaribi, eavesdrops outside the door with an alarmed expression. Nice expressive figures, beautifully detailed with embossing on the white wig.

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 soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.