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 Kasane ogi chiyo no Matsuwaka, 1857 - Dramatic supernatural scene from the kabuki play "Kasane ogi chiyo no Matsuwaka." A long-necked female demon, called a rokurokubi, extends her neck from behind a folding screen at left, winding through a window and floating above a frightened beauty and her companions. The grim spirit holds a packaged wrapped in cloth between her teeth, her long shaggy hair hanging down around her face. The beauty cowers behind her kimono sleeve as the young samurai at bottom right reaches for his sword to slay the demon. The actors are Bando Mitsugoro IV, Bando Tamasaburo, Ichikawa Ichizo III (twice) appearing in the roles of Riyaushi Amikura, Yayoi hime, Amikura imoto Otsuru, and Shinden Umejiro. A fascinating subject, nicely detailed with a moody and atmospheric night setting.

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. Fold at corner. A few small wormholes, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details.