Titles of Dance Descriptions - Designed between 1856 and 1858, Toyokuni III's large series "Titles of Dance Descriptions" presents scenes from a variety of kabuki plays, including some from performances a few years prior to publication. Each includes expressive figures in nicely detailed settings, and some feature deluxe treatments such as burnishing or embossing. The title cartouche take the form of two overlapping books, with text featuring the name of the play, the date of the performance, and the roles. These handsome designs are seldom seen, and are a nice choice for a kabuki enthusiast or Toyokuni III collector.

Scene from Jiraiya Goketsu Monogatari, 1856 - Terrific illustration from the kabuki play "Jiraiya goketsu monogatari" performed at the Kawarazaki Theater in 1852. The drama is based on the legendary thief and magician Jiraiya (Young Thunder), who practiced toad magic. He appears at lower left on a cloud of smoke issuing from a giant toad at far right, reading a spell from a scroll in his hands. On a woven bridge behind him, the bandit Yasha Goro confronts the archer Takasago Yuminosuke, who wears a wolf skin over his armor. A dramatic night scene with beautiful shading in the sky and handsome embossed detail on the scroll and white kimono trim. The actors are Ichikawa Ebizo V as the bandit Yashagoro, Ichikawa Kodanji IV (?) as Takasago Yuminosuke, and Ichikawa Danjuro VIII as Jiraiya, actually Ogata Hiroyuki. A great image from this interesting series.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 9" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Slight paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. Small hole, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases, stain. Please see photos for details.