Osaka Prints - Produced in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, Osaka prints or kamigata-e are instantly distinguishable from typical Edo ukiyo-e. A major difference is the choice of subject matter. Osaka prints were nearly always portraits of actors or kabuki scenes. In contrast, Edo print subjects included beauties, landscapes, nature scenes, warriors, and historic events, in addition to kabuki.

Distinctly different artistic styles also emerged in Edo and Osaka in the 18th and 19th century, resulting in certain recognizable characteristics for each area. Osaka prints feature more subtle, serious figures, reflecting the wagoto or soft style of acting prevalent in the area, along with distinctive facial expressions. The aragato or brash manner of acting popular in Edo influenced print designs towards bolder images of heroism and military prowess.

Much like the style of the prints, the demand for ukiyo-e in the cities of Osaka and Edo also varied. Osaka produced far fewer ukiyo-e designs than Edo did. As a consequence, Osaka prints are rarer and also some of the highest quality prints made in the 19th century, with many featuring deluxe techniques such as burnishing or embossing. Osaka prints are a rare and wonderful collecting area of Japanese woodblocks.

Special detail - Embossing on the white kimono, subtle burnished pattern on the black kimono, metallic pigment that has oxidized to a dark tone on the swords. From right, the actors are Mimasu Daigoro IV as Nagoya Sanzaemon (R) and Nakamura Utaemon IV as Fuwa Banzaemon in Act 2 of the play "Satomoyo Kabuki no Inazuma" at the Naka Theater in Osaka.

Artist - Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)

Image Size - 9 7/8" x 14"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two attached panels, backed with paper. Slight separation at ends of vertical fold between panels, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few spots, panels slightly curled. Please see photos for details.