Sharaku - Not much is known about the woodblock print artist Toshusai Sharaku, who specialized in kabuki portraits. His career spanned only ten months from 1794 to 1795, with around 150 prints known. Unlike his contemporaries, Sharaku did not idealize his subjects, instead creating realistic portrayals that were not always flattering, and his prints were not a popular success at the time. His best works convey a rare perceptivity, with a psychological insight and a deep understanding of the dramatic nature of the roles and the actors he depicted. Sharaku left behind a body of masterworks of ukiyo-e kabuki portraiture that remained unrecognized until a century after his death.

Comments - Fine Sharaku reprint of the actor Matsumoto Koshiro IV in the role of the fishmonger Gorobei in the drama "Katakiuchi Noriai Banashi." Gorobei was a kind merchant who helped two sisters, the heroes of the play, to avenge their father's death. He is shown holding a pipe, his other hand thrust into his sleeve. He frowns, his brows furrowed, as if thinking deeply. His eyelids and inner ear are delicately shaded, and the red of his lips and pipe add a lively note of color. He wears a plaid robe with a bold black collar, and has a sash tied around his head. A terrific Sharaku portrait, enhanced by a distressed, metallic silver background.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - 15" x 10 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Please see photos for details. Nice condition overall.