Nakamura Shikan IV in Three Roles: A Courtesan, the Spirit of a Butterfly, and a Cartoon Character, 1860

by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Current Status

Nakamura Shikan IV in Three Roles: A Courtesan, the Spirit of a Butterfly, and a Cartoon Character, 1860 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Original Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) Japanese Woodblock Print
Nakamura Shikan IV in Three Roles: A Courtesan, the Spirit of a Butterfly, and a Cartoon Character, 1860

Comments - Unusual print depicting Nakamura Shikan IV in three kabuki roles. At left, a courtesan grins as she looks down at an enormous gray rat that is placing a wooden box atop the head of a cartoon character. At right, the spirit of a butterfly watches the beauty with a evil grin, holding up sleeves patterned to look like a butterfly's wings. An intriguing image, detailed with fine line work in the hair and faint embossing on the white kimono collar.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 9 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. Vertical centerfold. Stitching holes at side, repaired. Slight soiling and rubbing. Please see photos for details.

Nakamura Shikan IV in Three Roles: A Courtesan, the Spirit of a Butterfly, and a Cartoon Character, 1860 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Nakamura Shikan IV in Three Roles: A Courtesan, the Spirit of a Butterfly, and a Cartoon Character, 1860 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

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