Kakuju - Toyokuni III's 1852 series "Comparison of Flowers from the Calligraphy Model Book" depicts actors in roles from "Sugawara denju tenarai kagami," a kabuki drama based on the life of the ninth-century courtier and calligrapher Sugawara no Michizane, called Kan Shojo in the play. The story revolves around samurai triplets, named Umeomaru (plum), Sakuramaru (cherry), and Matsuomaru (pine), who become the victims of divided loyalties following the treacherous downfall of their sponsor, Sugawara, at the hands of Matsuomaru's employer, Shihei. These handsome designs feature expressive half-length portraits, with attractive landscapes related to scenes from the play. Nicely detailed with fine line work in the hair, some feature deluxe treatments such as burnishing or embossing. A rarely seen Toyokuni III kabuki series.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 9 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Some soiling. Small hole at bottom edge, small tear at top. Please see photos for details. Good overall.