A Japanese woodblock print depicting Kabuki theater actors. - Lot 32

Lot n° 32
Go to lot
Estimation :
150 - 300 EUR
Bid on drouot.com
A Japanese woodblock print depicting Kabuki theater actors. - Lot 32
A Japanese woodblock print depicting Kabuki theater actors. It is inspired by the famous Kabuki and Jidaimono play *Yoshitsune Senbon Zabura*, a major work in the Japanese repertoire. It is signed Gototei Kunisada ga (五渡亭 国貞 画), one of the major artist names used by Utagawa Kunisada (who later took the name Toyokuni III, 1786–1865). The signature is located in the lower right corner. The black vertical inscription on the left clearly identifies the famous Kabuki actor Seki Sanjūrō (関三十郎), specifically Seki Sanjūrō II in this case, given the period during which the Gototei signature was in use (generally active before 1844). The publisher’s cartouche in the lower right corner bears the mark of the Omiya Heihachi publishing house (with the notation “Omiyazaka” or “Daikokuya,” depending on the seal variations of the time). The upper portion depicts a theatrical performance in which a robust male character (Seki Sanjūrō) interacts with a character positioned on a raised platform, richly dressed in a floral kimono. A stage assistant, dressed entirely in black (kuroko), is visible in the background, discreetly supporting the structure or the actor. The lower part of the composition features a stylized horizontal division, adorned with delicate branches of flowering plum (ume) standing out against an azure blue background.
My orders
Sale information
Sales conditions
Return to catalogue