https://japanesewoodblockedition.com Tue, 05 May 2026 18:49:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1 https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2026/04/vintage-utagawa-toyohara-shunga-japanese-woodblock-showa-recut/ https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2026/04/vintage-utagawa-toyohara-shunga-japanese-woodblock-showa-recut/#comments Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:24:49 +0000 https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2026/04/vintage-utagawa-toyohara-shunga-japanese-woodblock-showa-recut/ […]]]>


















They came out of a large curated collection. They are Showa era recuts of famous shunga done in the resurgence of interest in the Edo period during the early to mid 60’s in Japan. Some have been recut from the original larger image to edit the most graphic parts thus making them suitable for public display. Personally I prefer more left to the imagination. These have not seen the light of day in over 25 years and they are pristine. This one I believe was by Utagawa Toyohara but not quite sure. Please see all pics. All are in their original folder/mat.

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The actor Otani Tomoemon V playing the role of Ono no Michikaze (also read as Ono no Tofu) in the play Ono no Tofu Aoyagi Suzuri performed at the Ichimura-za Theatre, 5/1869. From a set of at least 22 prints published by Gusokuya Kahei, 1869. Pupil first of Toyohara Chikanobu (whose name he took), then of Utagawa Kunisada (among the few of Kunisada’s pupils who did not use the name of Utagawa). Produced prints of actors, sets of views, historical subjects, journalistic illustrations in the late Kunisada tradition, which reflect the declining taste of the public and the worsening color printing. Particularly known for some late okubi-e. A minor artist, but represents the last of the great ukiyo-e tradition. Ashmolean; Baltimore; British; Cincinnati; Fine (California, De Young); Musee (1), (2); Musees; Newark; Riccar; Tokyo (1); Victoria; Waseda. Condition: The art is in good condition. The paper is very thin. Please review all photos…. I had this piece up already, I removed it from the frame to show authenticity. It measures: 14 1/16″H x 9 3/8″W.

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This premium Toyohara Kunichika Art Print is reproduced in the USA by Texas Art Warehouse in a variety of sizes and materials including rolled paper, rolled canvas, gallery wrap canvas and float framed canvas (choose from the dropdown box). Born in Tokyo, he apprenticed under the renowned artists Kunisada and Chikanobu, combining their names to create his professional identity. Kunichika specialized in yakusha-e-dramatic depictions of kabuki actors-becoming celebrated for his intimate knowledge of theatrical life. His distinctive style featured vivid reds and deep purples derived from imported German aniline dyes, departing from the softer palettes of earlier ukiyo-e masters. Recognized as a top artist throughout his career, Kunichika received commissions for the 1867 Paris International Exposition. His works, such as Chotto Hitokuchi Hauta no Ateburi and The 53 Paulownia Trees at the Tower Gate, exemplify his mastery of the medium as Japan transitioned into the modern era. He is regarded as the last great master of ukiyo-e. All products are made by our printing and framing partner in the USA. If you are looking to frame yourself choose Unframed Art Paper or Rolled Canvas which are perfect for using existing frames or upcycling thrift store finds. If you prefer a ready to hang canvas piece right out of the box we have Stretched Gallery Wrap Canvas or Black Float Framed Canvas. Rolled Paper is a semi gloss digital paper printed full bleed (No white border). Fine Art Paper is a higher quality cotton rag paper more like watercolor paper. The ink will soak in more and give a lighter slightly textured appearance. Prices shown are printed full bleed (No white border) but can be printed with a 2 printed border on request. Gallery Wrapped & Stretched Canvas 1.25 Deep Bar with Mirror Edge (Extra edge is cloned on so you see the full image on the front). Float Framed Canvas is a narrow black wooden frame around a stretched canvas. There is a small gap between the canvas and frame making the canvas appear to float. It is of course secured firmly at the back. Arrives in a box ready to hang. Search terms: vintage, art, calligraphy, colorful, traditional, culture, portrait, bold, swirling, stylized, powerful, robe, signature, dramatic, expression, intricate, dynamic, detailed, clothing, performance, Weapon, Actor, Costume, Printmaking, seal, ukiyoe, dragon, japanese art, textiles, theater, staff, exaggerated features, woodblock print, Japan, Edo Period, Kabuki.

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Toyohara Kunichika Antique 1871 Woodblock Actor S. Toyohara Kunichika, Actors Bando Shuka (Bando Mitsugoro VI) and Ichimura Kakitsu IV in an Imagined Version of a Climactic Scene? In the Play Konezumi no Chuji (Mitate Konezumi no Chuji kyokuba). Image Size: 14″ X 9 5/8″. Framed: 21.5″ X 17.25″. Condition: Affixed at the top only to the mat. Tiny tear at the upper left [please see image]. Also, one needle point upper left [please see image]. Otherwise good antique condition. Please if you know more about this print please let us know. We have handled valuble antique Japaanese woodblock prints before but we’re not a true expert in the field. Please allow images to serve as part of the description. We still offer the same Guarantee on all our items & services. Our motto is Happy Business. Thank you for visiting and shopping with us.

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Antique Japanese Woodblock Print/Triptych Jishi Spirit by Toyohara Kunichika c. Presented is a beautiful Japanese full oban-size original woodblock triptych print created by Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese: ; 30 June 1835 – 1 July 1900). Kunichika was a Japanese woodblock print artist. Talented as a child, at about thirteen, he became a student of Tokyo’s then-leading printmaker, Utagawa Kunisada. His deep appreciation and knowledge of kabuki drama led to his production primarily of yakusha-e, which are woodblock prints of kabuki actors and scenes from popular plays of the time.. The triptych consists of three oban-size prints with a bright red background popular in the late Meiji period. The print depicts a scene from a Kabuki dance called Shunkyo Kagami Jishi. It’s a fantasy whose story is related through the movements of the dancers. Yayoi, a young lady in waiting in the Shôgun’s palace at Edo, was chosen to perform the lion dance at the New Year celebrations, a ceremonial performance originally designed to exorcize evil spirits. Gradually, the spirit of the lion Jishi (or Shishi) entered her and took complete charge of her limbs. Jishi (or Shishi) is a lion-protector against evil spirits. On the left sheet of the triptych, you can see the main characters of the play (“Kabuki dance” was actually a play as well – a fusion of song, dance, and drama). One of the roles is played by Ichikawa Danjuro IX, a famous actor at the time. On the right sheet, you see Yayoi, with a wooden lion’s head that contained the Jishi spirit that possessed her. The Kabuki dance play “Shunkyô Kagami Jishi” was premiered in March 1893 at the Kabukiza Theater in Osaka. Kunichika actually made several prints and triptychs dedicated to this play. The title is Osaka Kabukiza Opening, Acting in the Middle Act. ” It also says “Toyo-do, Exclusive Sales Office, Dojima-naka 2-chome, ? -ku, Osaka City. AUTHOR: Toyohara Kunichika PUBLISHER: Takeemon Akiyama TITLE: Shunkyo Kagami Jishi CREATED: c. Paper METHOD OF PRINTING: Woodblock printing PRINTED: Lifetime printing circa 1890s OVERALL SIZE: Full oban size 14.25″ X 9.5″ 3 sheets. The condition is good. Great detail and colors, some minor toning and soiling of the paper. The margibs are trimmed. Some minor paper loss at the edges. No backing, no connection between the sheets – they are separated. The paper is fragile, be very careful! Get Supersized Images & Free Image Hosting. Attention Sellers – Get Templates Image Hosting, Scheduling at Auctiva. Track Page Views With.

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The artist and printer’s markings are covered by the matting. We took one apart to verify the authenticity. Condition: Good condition for its age, with slight yellowing of the paper and minor stains, typical for antique prints. No major tears or damage. Materials: Traditional Japanese woodblock print on washi paper. Dimensions: Print size is approximately 11.5 x 8 inches. Matting and frame – 16.5 x 12.5 inches.

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The artist’s marking and printing information are covered by the matting. Condition: Good condition for its age, with slight yellowing of the paper and minor stains, typical for antique prints. The frames are old (maybe original) and very basic. No other noticeable damage. See the photos and let us know if you have any questions. Materials: Traditional Japanese woodblock print on washi paper. Dimensions: Print size is approximately 11.5 x 8 inches. Matting and frame – 16.5 x 12.5 inches.

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13 7/8″ × 9 1/2″ Total Width: approx. 28 3/4 Medium: Original Japanese woodblock print Condition: Backed with paper. Slight separation at ends of vertical folds (repaired). A few minor spots and a small mark. Strong, vibrant color; excellent impression. Please see photos for details. Authentication: Guaranteed original Meiji-period impression, not a reproduction. Offered here is a striking original Meiji-era triptych by the acclaimed ukiyo-e artist Toyohara Kunichika, renowned for his bold kabuki actor portraits. This dramatic composition features multiple actors in elaborate costumes, including a red-faced aragoto role, with exceptional color saturation and ornate textile patterns. Kunichika was one of the last great masters of traditional kabuki woodblock prints, and his Meiji-period triptychs are highly sought after for their dynamic layouts and rich theatrical detail. This example shows particularly strong reds, purples, and deep blacks, which often fade in lesser impressions. A wonderful piece for collectors of Japanese prints, kabuki art, or Meiji-period woodblocks. This is an authentic original Japanese woodblock print from the Meiji period. I do not sell reproductions.

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The artist’s marking and printing information are covered by the matting. Condition: Good condition for its age, with slight yellowing of the paper and minor stains, typical for antique prints. The frames are old (maybe original) and very basic. Minor paint scratches on the upper right side of the frame. No other noticeable damage. See the photos and let us know if you have any questions. Materials: Traditional Japanese woodblock print on washi paper. Dimensions: Print size is approximately 11.5 x 8 inches. Matting and frame – 16.5 x 12.5 inches.

]]> https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2026/01/japanese-woodblock-print-toyohara-chikanobu-1838-1912-bijinga-oban-series-1896-6/feed/ 0 https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2025/12/japanese-woodblock-print-toyohara-chikanobu-1838-1912-bijinga-oban-series-1896-5/ https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2025/12/japanese-woodblock-print-toyohara-chikanobu-1838-1912-bijinga-oban-series-1896-5/#comments Tue, 16 Dec 2025 03:08:41 +0000 https://japanesewoodblockedition.com/2025/12/japanese-woodblock-print-toyohara-chikanobu-1838-1912-bijinga-oban-series-1896-5/ […]]]>









The artist’s marking and printing information are covered by the matting. Condition: Good condition for its age, with slight yellowing of the paper and minor stains, typical for antique prints. The frames are old (maybe original) and very basic. No other noticeable damage. See the photos and let us know if you have any questions. Materials: Traditional Japanese woodblock print on washi paper. Dimensions: Print size is approximately 11.5 x 8 inches. Matting and frame – 16.5 x 12.5 inches.

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