Konishi Hirosada (ca 1810 - 1864) Kabuki Actor as an Onnagata, 1849. Deluxe Chuban.
Click here for a detailed enlargement.
This lovely portrait of an onnagata actor is probably the traditional role of Tsukimasu from the play Umayadogimi Shitennoji Kuyo. The print is a riot of dense interlocking colour and outrageous design. The drawing is conveying movement in one of the many dance interludes in kabuki performance and the presence of the branch in her right hand suggests that this may be the dance of the wisteria maiden.
Very fine colour impression and condition, with embossing and bronze pigment.
18cm x 25cm.
