One Hundred Roles of Baiko - In 1893, Kunichika was commissioned to create the series "One Hundred Roles of Baiko," chronicling the diverse characters played by the famous actor Onoe Kikugoro V, whose pen name was "Baiko." These fantastic prints feature a large portrait of Kikugoro V in one of his major roles, along with a small scene showing a supporting actor from the same play. These exquisite images were printed to the highest standards, using expensive techniques and materials such as burnishing, embossing, and mica. Beautifully drawn and composed, each print demonstrates Kunichika's skill in creating expressive characters, bringing each role to life on the page. A great choice for a kabuki enthusiast or Kunichika collector.

Onoe Kikugoro V as the Ghost of Taira no Masakado and Bando Mitsugoro as Takiyasha - Fantastic supernatural image of Baiko appearing as the ghost of the defeated rebel Taira no Masakado. He appears in a pale gray robe, holding a few multi-colored colored objects between his hands, red blood dripping over his shoulders. His lips have a bluish tinge and a flame flickers at upper left, both signs of his otherworldliness. In the inset above, Bando Hikosaburo plays Masakado's daughter, Princess Takiyasha, holding a naginata. Beautifully detailed with fine embossing on both robes and fine bokashi shading. A terrific choice for a collector interested in Japanese ghost stories.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 9" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical fold at side. Slight toning and soiling, slight rubbing and staining at edges. Please see photos for details.