Actors with Poems - Terrific kabuki print from an untitled series by Toyokuni III dating from 1861 to 1864. Each print features a half-length portrait of a popular actor in an imagined role, accompanied by a poem in a wood grain cartouche. Gengyo Miyagi designed most of the attractive landscape backgrounds. Dating from the last years of his life, these images demonstrate Toyokuni III's skill in creating expressive and finely nuanced portraits. Many feature deluxe printing techniques, such as burnishing or embossing, including delicate allover cloth embossing in the backgrounds. A fine actor series by the artist, and a wonderful choice for the kabuki enthusiast.

Sawamura Tanosuke III as Kanaya Iroha, 1861 - Attractive kabuki portrait of Sawamura Tanosuke III as the courtesan Iroha of the Kanaya in a scene from the play "Kutsuwa no Oto Tazuna no Somewake." She wears a black kimono bordered with blossoms, her sleeves crossed before her chest, looking down with a pensive expression as if lost in her thoughts. A white cloth covers her hair, the ends of a few hairpins visible. A crescent moon glows softly above grasses in silhouette behind her. A handsome design.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 9"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Large loss at corner, small loss and thinning at corner, repaired. Toning, soiling, a few creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details.