Utagawa Kunisada/Toyokuni III (1786-1865) Scenes From Kabuki Plays, Onoe Kikugoro III, 1856. Oban.
Between the years 1856 and 1858, Kunisada produced a series of woodblock prints depicting dramatic scenes from well known kabuki plays. The play here remains unidentified though the actor portrayed is the great Onoe Kikugoro III, shown here committing seppuku on a boat, pursued by armed men.
This is a great dramatic scene, Kunisada represents Kikugoro, his sword already embedded in his stomach, looking back in defiance at his pursuers.
A fine deluxe print, untrimmed with clear woodgrain visible in the background. Embossing to robe. Fine colours and fine early impression. Slight remnants of a centre crease.
