Osaka Prints - Produced in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, Osaka prints or kamigata-e are instantly distinguishable from typical Edo ukiyo-e. A major difference is the choice of subject matter. Osaka prints were nearly always portraits of actors or kabuki scenes. In contrast, Edo print subjects included beauties, landscapes, nature scenes, warriors, and historic events, in addition to kabuki.
Distinctly different artistic styles also emerged in Edo and Osaka in the 18th and 19th century, resulting in certain recognizable characteristics for each area. Osaka prints feature more subtle, serious figures, reflecting the wagoto or soft style of acting prevalent in the area, along with distinctive facial expressions. The aragato or brash manner of acting popular in Edo influenced print designs towards bolder images of heroism and military prowess.
Much like the style of the prints, the demand for ukiyo-e in the cities of Osaka and Edo also varied. Osaka produced far fewer ukiyo-e designs than Edo did. As a consequence, Osaka prints are rarer and also some of the highest quality prints made in the 19th century, with many featuring deluxe techniques such as burnishing or embossing. Osaka prints are a rare and wonderful collecting area of Japanese woodblocks.
Special detail - From left, the actors are Onoe Tamizo as Mino Shokuro and Arashi Yoshisaburo in the play "Keisei omonguchi " (Courtesans at the Great Gate).
Artist - Yoshitaki (1841 - 1899)
Image Size - 9 5/8" x 14" + margins as shown
Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels. Slight separation at ends of vertical fold at side, repaired. Rubbing, slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details.
Shopping Fuji Arts Clearance-
We sell thousands of clearance prints every year in our three ultra-low price categories. Start collecting, purchase an inexpensive print, or discover something special in Fuji Arts Clearance. Notable collectors worldwide shop the clearance regularly.
What prints are in Fuji Arts Clearance?
- Prints that have moved through our auctions and will sell below cost.
- Overstocked prints.
- Prints with condition issues.
Use the item page and photos to shop clearance. We don’t offer support for clearance purchasing (additional photos or enhanced identifications). All available information is on the item page. Clearance prints are final sale.
Shipping minimums: We do not ship orders totaling less than $24.99.
