Ota Masamitsu - A leading kabuki artist of the later shin-hanga period, Ota Masamitsu is best known for his two print portrait series, "Figures of the Showa Stage" and "Leading Figures of the Modern Stage," published by Banchoro during the late 1940s - early 1950s. In Ota’s works, we see the evolution of the shin-hanga actor print towards more realistic portraiture. His designs incorporate Western style shading and perspective to create a much more three-dimensional image, along with beautifully precise line work and saturated color. Ota Masamitsu's kabuki portraits are comparable to those of the better known Natori Shunsen, but Ota's work remains little known and his woodblocks are rarely seen on the market. His powerful and expressive portraits capture the individual personality of the performer, and are a great choice for a kabuki enthusiast or shin hanga collector.

Figures of the Showa Stage - Produced in 1949, this twelve print series of famous Showa era actors in character is considered Ota's masterwork. He had fully developed his personal style when he did this series and his use of perspective gives the prints a wonderful feeling of depth. Ota prints are a rare find and a terrific opportunity for the collector interested in shin-hanga. Beautifully printed with fine line work and subtle shading, with an embossed pattern on the white kimono collar and a subtle mica background. Publisher - Banchoro
Numbered - 180, Please note, this first edition print has an embossed number on the bottom margin giving the number of the print in a release of 200. The individual print number is embossed only - 180.

Artist - Ota Masamitsu (1892 - 1975)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 9 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Drying holes at left corners. Vertical fold at left edge. Slight creasing at edges. Please see photos for details.