Horizontal Oban Kabuki Prints by Toyokuni III - Handsome design from an untitled series of horizontal kabuki prints by Toyokuni III dating from 1847 - 1852. The horizontal oban format is an interesting departure from the more commonly seen vertical oban actor prints, allowing Toyokuni III to create detailed settings for the characters. These images provide a nice context for the interaction between the figures. Some prints feature deluxe publishing treatments such as burnishing or embossing. An interesting complement to Toyokuni III's more well-known vertical kabuki designs.

The Village School Scene, 1847 - 1852 - Handsome kabuki illustration of the Village School scene from the popular play "Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami." The samurai Matsuomaru had been ordered by his lord Shihei to ensure that his former master Sugawara's son, Kan Shusai, was killed at his village school. Instead, he allows his own son to be killed in place of Kan Shusai to repay a debt of gratitude to Sugawara. Matsuomaru waits outside the doorway at left, an anguished expression on his face. In the center, his wife Chiyo pushes a wooden chest down on top of the schoolteacher's sword. Genzo tried to attack her since he knew of the substitution and didn't want her to find out. Desks are stacked in the school room behind them, The actors include Arashi Yoshisaburo III as Matsuomaru, Onoe Baiko IV as Matsuomaru's wife, Chiyo, and Sawamura Chojuro V as Takebe Genzo. An interesting scene from this classic drama, with a nicely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 9 3/8" x 13 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. Faint vertical centerfold. Small loss at edge, repaired. Slight toning, slight soiling at edges. Please see photos for details.