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 Scandalous Love of Osome and Hisamatsu, 1850 - Handsome illustration from a kabuki play about the pawnshop apprentice Hisamatsu, who scandalously falls in love with his master's daughter, the beautiful Osome, who returns his affection even though she is betrothed to someone else. Here, the couple is visiting Myoken Shrine when they encounter Hisamatsu's fiancee, Omitsu, and a monkey trainer. The monkey trainer scratches his head in a puzzled manner, his monkey peering over his shoulder. Omitsu sits on the ground, poking at the trainer with a leafy stalk of bamboo. Hisamatsu kneels at right, while Osome smiles down at him happily. She wears a floral kimono and has a black hood over her head, an umbrella in her hand. Blossoming cherry trees frame the scene. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Kuzo II as the monkey trainer, Iwai Kumesaburo III as Omitsu, and Iwai Kumesaburo III as both Osome and Hisamatsu. Nice expressive figures in an attractive 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. Vertical centerfold. A couple wormholes, repaired. Slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details.