Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) antique Japanese woodblock print titled Chapter 51: Ukifune. This is part of his Fifty-Four Modern Feelings series. This piece was printed in 1884. This piece is matted and framed under glass, in a golden frame. With frame, it measures 18 inches x 24 inches. This was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) Japanese, Antique Framed Woodblock. Depicts the kabuki actor Bandô Mitsugorô VI (1841-1873) in a role from 1872. Print has kanji in the upper left and right corners. Label on reverse with information about the piece and its origins. Overall Size: 21 3/4 x 16 in. Sight Size: 14 x 9 1/4 in. #4746 . Toyohara Kunichika was born Åshima Yasohachi in June 1835 in the Kyobashi district, a merchant and artisan area of Edo, Japan. He abandoned an apprenticeship at a thread and yarn store at age ten to work at a dry goods shop, painting and sketching items. His father lost the bathhouse he ran shortly thereafter, and the family changed their surname to distance themselves from this failure, making him Arakawa Yasohachi. At twelve he began to design kabuki actor portraits for local artist Toyohara Chikanobu, who recommended him at thirteen to become a student of Tokyo’s leading print maker, Utagawa Kunisada. His deep appreciation and knowledge of kabuki drama led to his production primarily of yakusha-e, which are woodblock prints of actors and scenes from popular plays of the time. In 1854 he took the name “Kunichika,” a composite of the names of his two teachers, Kunisada and Chikanobu. In 1861 Kunichika married his first wife, Ohana, and in that same year had a daughter, Hana. He fathered two out-of-wedlock children with whom he had no contact, but remained strongly attached to Hana after divorcing Ohana. By the 1870s he was known as a womanizer and alcoholic, sometimes performing in amateur burlesque shows. He enjoyed partying with the geishas and prostitutes of the Yoshiwara district, and was a backstage regular at numerous theaters. He was constantly in debt and often borrowed money from the kabuki actors he depicted so admiringly. Only one photograph of him exists, taken in his brother’s photo shop the year before he died in Honjo in July 1900. His work is credited with bridging the tumultuous gap between the Edo and Meiji periods.
Group of Three Japanese Ukiyo-e Woodblock Prints on Paper, comprising: Toshusai Sharaku (Japanese, XVIII), "Sawamura Sojuro III As Ogishi Kurando" circa 1795, Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900), Center Panel of "Morning Pilgrimage to Mount Minobu" (Minobusan asamairi no zu), 1863, and Woodcut of Mother and Child, 19th century, in black frames. Largest: 15.25" H x 9.75" W; frame: 23.5" H x 18.25" W. Provenance: From an East 81st Street Estate. Keywords: Prints, Multiples, Asian Art, Figural, Figurative, Figural, Maternal, Polychrome, Okubi-e, Kabuki, Festival, Antique,
Two Antique Japanese Woodblock Prints by Koyohara Kunichika. (1): A tryptch by Toyohara Kunichika (1835 - 1900 Japan). Depicting a scene of a Kabuki play, with courtesan, samurai, and scholar together in interior with red backdrop. Pasted to board. Tear to center print; small tears to print at right. Measures 14" x 28.5" approx. (2): "Ichimura Kakitsu as Fuywa Bansalen". Depiction from a series of half-length portraits of Kabuki actors. Printed calligraphy at reverse. Small hole at left, minor tear at upper left. Measures 13.5" x 9.25" approx.
Artist: Toyohara Kunichika, Japanese (1835 - 1900) Title: Man in Floral Kimono Medium: Color Woodblock, signed in block Image Size: 13.25 x 8.5 inches Size: 18.5 x 13 in. (46.99 x 33.02 cm) Description: Color Woodblock depicting a man participating in Kabuki theater, wearing a floral kimono. By an unknown artist.
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) antique Japanese woodblock print titled Chapter 51: Ukifune. This is part of his Fifty-Four Modern Feelings series. This piece was printed in 1884. This piece is matted and framed under glass, in a golden frame. With frame, it measures 18 inches x 24 inches. This was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print, Man standing near the sea, wood pilings in background. (This print appears to be a scene to the right of another Kunichika print we have available.) Framed, mat and glazed. 3lbs Measures Approx.: image area 9 inches x 13.25 inches ; framed 15 inches x 21 inches . Domestic Shipping: $50
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835 - 1900) Japan, late Edo period 36,5 x 25 cm Ôban tate-e. Coloured woodblock print. Series: ‘’Edo kio tôsei sugata‘’ (Figures animated by Edo). Depiction of the actor Ichimura Kakitsu IV. Signature: Kunichika hitsu. Publisher: Hiranoya Shinzô. Censorship: aratame. Date: 3/1866 From a German private collection, assembled between the 1960s and 2022 - One short tear to the upper edge, three small areas backed, strong colours - Unframed Toyohara Kunichika (1835 - 1900) Japan, späte Edo - Periode 36,5 x 25 cm Ôban tate-e. Farbholzschnitt. Serie: ''Edo kio tôsei sugata'' (Von Edo beseelten Gestalten). Darstellung des Schauspielers Ichimura Kakitsu IV. Signatur: Kunichika hitsu. Verlag: Hiranoya Shinzô. Zensur: aratame. Datierung: 3/1866 Aus einer deutschen Privatsammlung, gesammelt zwischen den 1960er Jahren und 2022 - Ein kurzer Riss an der Oberkante, drei kleine Partien hinterlegt, kräftige Farben - Ungerahmt
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) antique Japanese woodblock print titled Chapter 51: Ukifune. This is part of his Fifty-Four Modern Feelings series. This piece was printed in 1884. This piece is matted and framed under glass, in a golden frame. With frame, it measures 18 inches x 24 inches. This was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.
Lot of 6 antique Japanese woodblock prints circa 1860's by Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) depicting dramatic actors. Unframed, each about 13.75 x 9.5 in.
Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900), Broken Sake Bottle - Ukiyo-e Kabuki Triptych, 19th century color woodblocks, each sheet approximately 13.75 x 9.25 inches, for a total width of 28 inches, unframed. Provenance: purchased in Japan before 1910.
(1835-1900). Halbportrait eines Kabuki-Schauspielers in der Rolle eines Samurai mit shakuhachi-Flöte. Farbholzschnitt um 1860. Format: tate-ôban. Signatur: Knichika hitsu. siegel: Toshidama-in. D
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900), signing Kunichika ga , depicting from right to left the actors Ôtani Yûshô, Sawamura Tanosuku and Nakamura Shikan, Japan, framed, triptych. H.: 36 cm - W.: 75 cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900), signing Toyohara Kunichika hitsu, portrait (posthumous?) of the actor Kataoka Ichizô, Japan, framed, ôban-tate. H.: 35 cm - W.: 23 cm
A Set Of Antique Japanese Woodblock Prints 19th Century Toyohara Kunichika 1835-1900. Each Measure 9.5" & 13.5". Provenance: One Person Private Estate Central Florida.
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900)Two Japanese Kabuki Woodblock Prints, represent actors in signature roles. An avid Kabuki patron, he was especially known for his prints of actors. One of the prints depicts an actor who specializes in araogoto ("rough style") portrayals of heroic characters. With the kumadori (red and white make-up) the actor brings to life  an imperial warrior. The red background intensifies the moment when he strikes a mie pose on stage. The vivid colors are due to his use of aniline dyes imported from Germany. The artist frequently used  the strong red as a background color. The other print with dynamic composition captures a dancer with an assistant behind him performing in unison to give the illusion of a four-armed dancer. The actor probably specializes in onnagata (female impersonator roles). Mica is added to both prints to enliven the surfaces. It is gives the illusion of falling cherry blossoms in the latter print. Dimensions: Both prints; Frames: 20.5 in. x 16.5 in.; Prints: 13.75 in. x 9 in. Condition: Borders have been trimmed; one print has damage to top edge.
Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900). "Soga Brothers Surprising Suketsune" three hand-colored woodblocks, 1890. Signed in woodcut. A lovely triptych of woodcuts by Toyohara Kunichika depicting a dramatic scene of four Kabuki actors from the famous tale of the Soga Brothers. The story follows the brothers on their lifelong quest to avenge the death of their father at the hands of the nobleman Suketsune. Here, the pair surprises Suketsune in his hunting camp at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Woken from his sleep, the murderer tosses his pillow at Soga Goro while reaching for his sword. Goro grips his sword overhead with both hands, wearing his trademark robe patterned with butterflies over his armor. His older brother Juro approaches at right, staring at his enemy with a look of pure disdain. At far left, Juro's lover, the courtesan Oiso no Tora peers around the corner, smiling happily. Rain falls heavily against the gray night sky behind her. Size of woodcut: 27.125" W x 13.5" H (68.9 cm x 34.3 cm); with frame: 33.6" W x 19.9" H (85.3 cm x 50.5 cm) Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century, Japanese woodblock techniques had evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time, the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. Ukiyo-e prints were known for birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues - all hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as the examples featured in this lot played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonisme exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, and pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec. About the artist: "Kunichika Toyohara was one the most important woodblock print artists of the Meiji period (1868-1912). Best known for his dramatic actor portraits (yakusha-e.), Kunichika ushered ukiyo-e into a new era of color printmaking. At his hand, the floating world came to life in rich purples and deep reds. Even as new artistic mediums became popular in Japan, Kunichika championed the genres and aesthetics of ukiyo-e in vivid color. Born as Yasohachi Oshima in 1835, Kunichika's father was a public bathhouse proprietor in Kyobashi district, home to many artists and merchants. He assumed his mother's family name, Arakawa, during his youth. Kunichika began his artistic training around the age of 12 under Chikanobu Ichiosai Toyohara. Roughly two years later, Kunichika apprenticed under Kunisada Utagawa (1786-1865) and began to produce actor prints in the 1850s. Though he worked in the style of the Utagawa school, he never used the Utagawa name. Kunichika took his artist name from the names of his two teachers. After more than a decade in Kunisada's studio, Kunichika's popularity rose as he stepped out as an independent artist in the 1860s and 1870s. Though Kunichika produced some bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), historical prints, and journalistic illustrations, his passion lay with the kabuki theater. From sprawling triptychs to okubi-e (large-head portraits) rich in emotion, Kunichika established himself as the leading artist of yakusha-e (actor prints). He immersed himself in the kabuki world, regularly spending time backstage, sketching the actors, socializing with the theatrical figures, and watching the plays. This wealth of personal experience in the theater lent an intimacy to his bold designs. Kunichika's notable students include Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) and Chikashige Morikawa (fl. 1869-1882)" (source: Ronin Gallery website) Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #188623
Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900). "Soga Brothers at the Hunting Camp" three hand-colored woodblocks, 1893. Signed in woodcut. An enticing triptych of woodblock prints by Toyohara Kunichika depicting a scene from the famous tale of the Soga Brothers. The story follows the brothers on their lifelong quest to avenge the death of their father at the hands of the nobleman Suketsune. Here, the pair arrives at Lord Yoritomo's hunting camp at the base of Mt. Fuji. The brothers stand on the porch of the lodge as they meet a beauty who will secretly let them in, shielding the light from her lamp with her kimono sleeve. At left, younger brother Sogo Goro holds a flaming torch aloft as a driving rain falls over the night sky, Mt. Fuji in gray silhouette in the distance. Soga Juro stands in the center, frowning intently. Size of woodcut: 27.25" W x 13.5" H (69.2 cm x 34.3 cm); of frame: 33.75" W x 19.75" H (85.7 cm x 50.2 cm) Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century, Japanese woodblock techniques had evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time, the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. Ukiyo-e prints were known for birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues - all hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as the examples featured in this lot played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonisme exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, and pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec. About the artist: "Kunichika Toyohara was one the most important woodblock print artists of the Meiji period (1868-1912). Best known for his dramatic actor portraits (yakusha-e.), Kunichika ushered ukiyo-e into a new era of color printmaking. At his hand, the floating world came to life in rich purples and deep reds. Even as new artistic mediums became popular in Japan, Kunichika championed the genres and aesthetics of ukiyo-e in vivid color. Born as Yasohachi Oshima in 1835, Kunichika's father was a public bathhouse proprietor in Kyobashi district, home to many artists and merchants. He assumed his mother's family name, Arakawa, during his youth. Kunichika began his artistic training around the age of 12 under Chikanobu Ichiosai Toyohara. Roughly two years later, Kunichika apprenticed under Kunisada Utagawa (1786-1865) and began to produce actor prints in the 1850s. Though he worked in the style of the Utagawa school, he never used the Utagawa name. Kunichika took his artist name from the names of his two teachers. After more than a decade in Kunisada's studio, Kunichika's popularity rose as he stepped out as an independent artist in the 1860s and 1870s. Though Kunichika produced some bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), historical prints, and journalistic illustrations, his passion lay with the kabuki theater. From sprawling triptychs to okubi-e (large-head portraits) rich in emotion, Kunichika established himself as the leading artist of yakusha-e (actor prints). He immersed himself in the kabuki world, regularly spending time backstage, sketching the actors, socializing with the theatrical figures, and watching the plays. This wealth of personal experience in the theater lent an intimacy to his bold designs. Kunichika's notable students include Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) and Chikashige Morikawa (fl. 1869-1882)" (source: Ronin Gallery website) Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century, Japanese woodblock techniques had evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time, the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. Ukiyo-e prints were known for birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues - all hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as the examples featured in this lot played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonisme exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, and pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec. About the artist: "Kunichika Toyohara was one the most important woodblock print artists of the Meiji period (1868-1912). Best known for his dramatic actor portraits (yakusha-e.), Kunichika ushered ukiyo-e into a new era of color printmaking. At his hand, the floating world came to life in rich purples and deep reds. Even as new artistic mediums became popular in Japan, Kunichika championed the genres and aesthetics of ukiyo-e in vivid color. Born as Yasohachi Oshima in 1835, Kunichika's father was a public bathhouse proprietor in Kyobashi district, home to many artists and merchants. He assumed his mother's family name, Arakawa, during his youth. Kunichika began his artistic training around the age of 12 under Chikanobu Ichiosai Toyohara. Roughly two years later, Kunichika apprenticed under Kunisada Utagawa (1786-1865) and began to produce actor prints in the 1850s. Though he worked in the style of the Utagawa school, he never used the Utagawa name. Kunichika took his artist name from the names of his two teachers. After more than a decade in Kunisada's studio, Kunichika's popularity rose as he stepped out as an independent artist in the 1860s and 1870s. Though Kunichika produced some bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), historical prints, and journalistic illustrations, his passion lay with the kabuki theater. From sprawling triptychs to okubi-e (large-head portraits) rich in emotion, Kunichika established himself as the leading artist of yakusha-e (actor prints). He immersed himself in the kabuki world, regularly spending time backstage, sketching the actors, socializing with the theatrical figures, and watching the plays. This wealth of personal experience in the theater lent an intimacy to his bold designs. Kunichika's notable students include Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) and Chikashige Morikawa (fl. 1869-1882)" (source: Ronin Gallery website) Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #188621
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (Japanese, 1835-1900). Two works; 1896, Woodcut with colors. Verso notation confirming printing date of 1896. Framed. (Not examined out of frame. ) - Sight: 14 x 10 inches; frame: 21 x 16 inches
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) antique Japanese woodblock print titled Chapter 51: Ukifune. This is part of his Fifty-Four Modern Feelings series. This piece was printed in 1884. This piece is matted and framed under glass, in a golden frame. With frame, it measures 18 inches x 24 inches. This was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.
A GROUP OF TWO PRINTS TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) 「濡髪長五郎 中村芝翫」「金門勝五郎 市川九蔵」part of triptych Edo period (1603-1868), 1864 Polychrome woodblock print, 35.5 x 24.2cm UTAGAWA KUNISADA (Toyokuni III) (1786-1864) Yakusha-e kabuki actor under a stormy and rainy night with butterfly design on his kimono Publisher : Shitaya Ai-to 1861 Edo period Superb printing with mica powder Ōban tate-e Japanese woodblock print, 36 x 24.4cm (2)
A GROUP OF TWO PRINTS BY TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) From the series Mitate iroha awase “the Ta brigade, eighth group” - Kabuki actor Ichimura Kakitsu IV as Takemon no Tora, “Na Brigade, sixth group” - Kabuki actor Kawarazaki Gonjûrô I as Danshichi, from the series Mitate iroha awase Edo period (1603-1868), 1866 Polychrome woodblock prints, 35.4 x 24.1cm, 36.4 x 24cm (2) Reference https://collections.mfa.org/objects/471444
A GROUP OF THREE PRINTS UTAGAWA KUNISADA (1786-1865) Edo period (1603-1868), circa 1865 Polychrome woodblock print, 37 x 25.2cm together with two prints by: TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Tattooed kabuki actor Edo period (1603-1868), circa 1865 Polychrome woodblock print, 34.8 x 24cm Sleet on the Honmachi river bank” ”Sashichi Ichimura Hazaemon 「本町河岸のみぞれ」「御祭佐七 市村羽左衛門」 Edo period (1603-1868), 1864 Polychrome woodblock print, 37.3 x 25.2cm (3)
A GROUP OF THREE PRINTS UTAGAWA SCHOOL - possibly Utagawa Kunisada II (1823-1880) Kabuki scene in which a jinrikisha (rickshaw) shooter sports a tattoo Meiji era (1868–1912), circa 1870 Polychrome woodcut print, 36 x 23.4cm TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Tattooed jinrikisha (rickshaw) puller Miyako Chōkichi 人力都長吉 and Nakanochō Sankichi 仲ノ丁三吉 wear tattoos Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1871 Polychrome woodcut UTAGAWA KUNISADA II (1823-1880) The tattooed palanquin bearer Tomoe Nizō 巴二蔵 and Yoshichō Omasu よし町おます Edo period (1603-1868), 1865 Polychrome woodblock print, 37.7 x 26.8cm (3)
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) Scene from the kabuki play 'Hana no kaosugata taki no tsubo' 花の顔姿の滝壺 with the fictional characters of monk Mongaku Shōnin, Ōgata Shiraya, Takashima no Sama, the character on the left has tattoos Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1885 Polychrome woodblock print, 34.5 x 69cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) Scene from the kabuki parody play 'Mitate kijutsu kurabe' 見立奇術競 (A Contest of Magic Arts In the Know) with the characters of the tattooed sorcerer Jiraiya and the sorceress Yûfu-Tsunade. Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1885 Polychrome woodblock print, 36 x 73.5cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) The Kabuki Piece Kami no Megumi Wago no Torikumi Publisher: Fukuda Kumajiro Meiji Era (1868–1912), 1900 Polychrome woodblock print, 34.3 x 72.9cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) Scene from the kabuki play 'Mitate waka sannin' 見立若三人 the actor on the left is wearing tattoos Edo Period (1603-1868), 1866 Polychrome woodblock print, 33.7 x 69.2cm
A GROUP OF THREE PRINTS TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Episode of the Kabuki play Yaoya Oshichi, one of the actors is depicted with a tattoo Editor: Ueki Rinnosuke Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1882 Polychrome woodblock print, 36.4 x 72.4cm UTAGAWA KUNISADA II (1823-1880) Episode of the Kabuki play Benten Kozo, the central actor is depicted with a tattoo Meiji era (1868–1912), circa 1880 Polychrome woodblock print, 35.3 x 69cm UTAGAWA KUNISADA III (1848-1920) The Hamamatsuya scene (name of a well-known kimono shop) from the kabuki play 'Yokoshimada kanoko furisode' 横島田鹿子振袖 with the central character of Benten Kozo depicted with tattoos Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1889 Polychrome woodblock print, 36.6 x 71.4cm (3)
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Kabuki actors Ichikawa Danjūrō IX and Ichikawa Kuzō III in the play 'Tokete mimasu musubikashiwa' 解三升結柏, the actor on the left is depicted with an ornamental dragon tattoo Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1894 Polychrome woodblock print, 36.5 x 76.6cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) The Gakanji scene 瓦罐寺の場 from the kabuki play Suikoden yuki no danmari 水滸伝雪挑 the two heroes of the Suikoden wear tattoos Meiji Era (1868–1912), 1893 Polychrome woodblock print, 37 x 75.6cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) Scene from the kabuki play 'Natsu matsuri Naniwa kagami' 夏祭浪花鑑 with actor Ichikawa Danjūrō IX as Danshichi Kurobei, tattoos on the character on the right Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1883 Polychrome woodblock print, 37.3 x 74.9cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) Scene from the kabuki play 'Oto ni kiku kaika no maremono' 音菊開花稀 with fictional characters Benten Kozō (with tattoos), Nozarashi Gosuke, Shirai Gonpachi Meiji Era (1868–1912), 1874 Polychrome woodblock print, 36 x 70.2cm
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835–1900) Kabuki actors from the play 'Kaika Narumi yukata zoroi' 開花鳴海浴衣揃, the character on the right has tattoos Meiji Era (1868-1912), 1875 Polychrome woodblock print, 37.1 x 76.3cm
A GROUP OF TWO PRINTS TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Kyusuke the servant Tsuruzo Nakamura Dainichi Otake Tanosuke Sawamura - Genan kyū kai nakamura tsuruzō Dainichi o take sawamura tanosuke下男九介 中村鶴蔵大日お竹 沢村田之助 1864 Edo period Ōban tate-e triptych Japanese woodblock print, 36.5 x 74.4cm UTAGAWA KUNISADA I (Toyokuni III) (1786-1864) Kabuki play Kosode Soga Azami no Ironui with actors Seki Sanjûrô III as the Poetry Teacher (Haikaishi) Hakuren (R), Ichikawa Kodanji IV as Oniazami Seikichi (C), and Iwai Kumesaburô III as Izayoi Osayo (L) 1859 Edo period Ōban tate-e triptych Japanese woodblock print, 36.5 x 74.6cm (2) Ref https://collections.mfa.org/objects/486749
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Play: Yagura Daiko Oto mo Yoshiwara (first performed 1866) Actors Ichimura Kakitsu IV as Asahina Tôbei (R), Nakamura Shikan IV as Washi no Chôkichi (C), and Sawamura Tosshô II as Yume no Ichibei (L) Rare tattooed actors designs 1868 Meiji period Ōban tate-e triptych Japanese woodblock print, 35 x 71.9cm Ref https://collections.mfa.org/objects/472693/actors-ichimura-kakitsu-iv-as-asahina-tobei-r-nakamura-shctx=36a346e9-de33-4944-a7cf-9ed62caf48ee&idx=760
TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Ichikawa Sadanji I as Orochimaru, the son of the Giant Snake Right sheet of a kabuki triptych 1891 Meiji period Ōban tate-e Japanese woodblock print, 37.2 x 25.2cm Ref https://www.dh-jac.net/db/nishikie/results-big.phpf1=N190-010(01)&f11=1&enter=postgr
A GROUP OF TWO PRINTS TOYOHARA KUNICHIKA (1835-1900) Kabuki play with actors Ichimura Uzaemon XIII as Nozarashi Gosuke (R) and Bandô Mitsugorô VI as the Girl (Musume) Odai (L) 1865 Edo period Ōban tate-e diptych Japanese woodblock print, 47.8 x 35.3cm UTAGAWA KUNISADA I (Toyokuni III) (1786-1864) Kabuki play Oyama ningyō no sei おやま人形の精 1859 Edo period Ōban tate-e diptych Japanese woodblock print, 50.3 x 36.6cm (2) Ref https://collections.mfa.org/objects/472548
Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900). "Nakamura Shikan IV as the Sumo Wrestler Nio Nidayu" hand-colored woodblock, n.d. Signed in woodcut. A wonderful kabuki woodblock portrait of Nakamura Shikan IV as the sumo wrestler Nio Nidayu by Japanese artist Toyohara Kunichika. The enraged athlete raises an ornate pipe above his head to use as a weapon. He wears a striking black kimono decorated with a fierce dragon and flaming jewels, a white cloth wrapped about his neck. The diagonally divided background features a blossoming plum tree and a red tie-dyed textile pattern. A fan-shaped inset above shows Ichikawa Sadanji I as Osho Jiro with a sash caught between his teeth, grimacing angrily. Size of woodblock: 9.5" W x 13.5" H (24.1 cm x 34.3 cm); of frame: 11.5" W x 15.5" H (29.2 cm x 39.4 cm) Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century, Japanese woodblock techniques had evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time, the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. Ukiyo-e prints were known for birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues - all hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as the examples featured in this lot played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonisme exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, and pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec. About the artist: "Kunichika Toyohara was one the most important woodblock print artists of the Meiji period (1868-1912). Best known for his dramatic actor portraits (yakusha-e.), Kunichika ushered ukiyo-e into a new era of color printmaking. At his hand, the floating world came to life in rich purples and deep reds. Even as new artistic mediums became popular in Japan, Kunichika championed the genres and aesthetics of ukiyo-e in vivid color. Born as Yasohachi Oshima in 1835, Kunichika's father was a public bathhouse proprietor in Kyobashi district, home to many artists and merchants. He assumed his mother's family name, Arakawa, during his youth. Kunichika began his artistic training around the age of 12 under Chikanobu Ichiosai Toyohara. Roughly two years later, Kunichika apprenticed under Kunisada Utagawa (1786-1865) and began to produce actor prints in the 1850s. Though he worked in the style of the Utagawa school, he never used the Utagawa name. Kunichika took his artist name from the names of his two teachers. After more than a decade in Kunisada's studio, Kunichika's popularity rose as he stepped out as an independent artist in the 1860s and 1870s. Though Kunichika produced some bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), historical prints, and journalistic illustrations, his passion lay with the kabuki theater. From sprawling triptychs to okubi-e (large-head portraits) rich in emotion, Kunichika established himself as the leading artist of yakusha-e (actor prints). He immersed himself in the kabuki world, regularly spending time backstage, sketching the actors, socializing with the theatrical figures, and watching the plays. This wealth of personal experience in the theater lent an intimacy to his bold designs. Kunichika's notable students include Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) and Chikashige Morikawa (fl. 1869-1882)" (source: Ronin Gallery website) Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #188624
Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835-1900). "Miyamoto Musashi and Kasahara Shinzaburo, Snow Scene at Mount Kiso" three hand-colored woodblocks, 1888. Signed in woodcut. A dramatic woodcut by Toyohara Kuichika depicting a kabuki scene of the young warrior Miyamoto Musashi dueling the elderly Kasahara Shinzaburo. Lost in the mountains, the young Musashi encountered the elderly Kasahara Shinzaburo, who offered to cook him some rice. While waiting, Musashi bragged about his martial arts expertise, whereupon the old man laughed and quoted the saying "Those who know do not speak, those who speak do not know." The angry samurai attacked him, while Kasahara used the wooden lid from the cooking pot of rice to easily deflect Musashi's blows. Discovering that Kasahara was actually the expert fencing master Tsukahara Bokuden, Musashi apologized and stayed to study with the master. Size of individual woodcut: 13.75" W x 9" H (34.9 cm x 22.9 cm); of triptych: 13.75" W x 27.25" H (34.9 cm x 69.2 cm); of frame: 19.25" W x 33" H (48.9 cm x 83.8 cm) Woodblock prints were created in Japan as early as the 8th century to illustrate texts. By the 18th century, Japanese woodblock techniques had evolved and the first polychrome prints or nishiki-e were commissioned for wealthy patrons of the Edo period. This period is known for marvelous woodblock prints of female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and courtesans of the infamous pleasure districts. In time, the repertoire expanded to include romantic landscapes, flora and fauna, and dramatic historical events. Ukiyo-e prints were known for birds-eye views, a penchant for strong line, and an appreciation for brilliant, saturated hues - all hallmarks of this fine Japanese artform. Works such as the examples featured in this lot played a major role in the West's perception of Japanese visual culture during the late 19th century when Japonisme exerted a powerful influence on French Impressionists such as Degas, Manet, and Monet, Post-Impressionists including Van Gogh, and pioneering Art Nouveau artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec. About the artist: "Kunichika Toyohara was one the most important woodblock print artists of the Meiji period (1868-1912). Best known for his dramatic actor portraits (yakusha-e.), Kunichika ushered ukiyo-e into a new era of color printmaking. At his hand, the floating world came to life in rich purples and deep reds. Even as new artistic mediums became popular in Japan, Kunichika championed the genres and aesthetics of ukiyo-e in vivid color. Born as Yasohachi Oshima in 1835, Kunichika's father was a public bathhouse proprietor in Kyobashi district, home to many artists and merchants. He assumed his mother's family name, Arakawa, during his youth. Kunichika began his artistic training around the age of 12 under Chikanobu Ichiosai Toyohara. Roughly two years later, Kunichika apprenticed under Kunisada Utagawa (1786-1865) and began to produce actor prints in the 1850s. Though he worked in the style of the Utagawa school, he never used the Utagawa name. Kunichika took his artist name from the names of his two teachers. After more than a decade in Kunisada's studio, Kunichika's popularity rose as he stepped out as an independent artist in the 1860s and 1870s. Though Kunichika produced some bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), historical prints, and journalistic illustrations, his passion lay with the kabuki theater. From sprawling triptychs to okubi-e (large-head portraits) rich in emotion, Kunichika established himself as the leading artist of yakusha-e (actor prints). He immersed himself in the kabuki world, regularly spending time backstage, sketching the actors, socializing with the theatrical figures, and watching the plays. This wealth of personal experience in the theater lent an intimacy to his bold designs. Kunichika's notable students include Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) and Chikashige Morikawa (fl. 1869-1882)" (source: Ronin Gallery website) Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #188622
