Artist Matahei and Tosa Shogen, 1869

by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Current Status

Artist Matahei and Tosa Shogen, 1869 by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Original Kunichika (1835 - 1900) Japanese Woodblock Print
Artist Matahei and Tosa Shogen, 1869

Comments - Interesting scene from the tale of the artist Matahei. A student of the master artist Tosa Shogen, Matahei was distraught when a younger student was promoted ahead of him. The humiliated artist decided to commit suicide, but his wife urged him to first paint a self-portrait. The portrait was so lifelike that when Tosa Shogen saw it, he admired his passion and promoted Matahei on the spot, allowing him to use the master name Tosa. Here, Matahei frowns as he learns that he will not be promoted, looking up as Tosa Shogen stares back at him with an angry expression. Matahei's wife, Otoku, leans forward eagerly at left, a hand drum on her shoulder. The actors include Bando Mitsugoro as Otoku and Nakamura Shikan at Matahei. Nice large expressive figures set off by a deep blue background. Nice large expressive figures set off by a deep blue background. Includes embossing on the white hair and the yellow trim of Tosa's robes.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Faint vertical fold in right panel, folds at corner. A few small holes, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details.

Artist Matahei and Tosa Shogen, 1869 by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)
Artist Matahei and Tosa Shogen, 1869 by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

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