Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) (1786-1865)
The famous Shibaraku scene, dramatic highlight of the Kaomise performance to celebrate the beginning of the new Kabuki theatre year, staged in the 11th month of 1833 at the Ichimura Theatre in Edo, in the play "Koi Yoriiru Tsui no Yumitori".
The actors and their roles, from right to left: Onoe Kikugorô III as the evil prince Akuôji, Ichikawa Danjûrô VIII as Shibuya Kanaômaru Masatoshi and Ichikawa Ebizo V as Senoo Tarô.
Signature:Gototei Kunisada ga
Publisher: Yamaguchiya Tôbei (Kinkôdô), Edo
Censor: Kiwame
Date: 1833, 11th month
Size: Ôban triptych, c. 36 x 72.4 cm (overall)
Excellent impression and very good colours. The three sheets with some trimming, not mounted together. Unobtrusive horizontal centrefolds smoothed out, a number of smaller wormholes professionally restored, a few minor soiling and stains, orange pigment oxidized. Overall very good condition.
Very rare triptych with one of the sought-after depictions of the Shibaraku ("wait a moment!") scene. The leading role is traditionally played by the holder of the name Ichikawa Danjûrô, in the typical flamboyant costume with the large square mimasu crests of the Ichikawa actors.
Cf. MFA Boston, Bigelow Coll. 11.40623a-c; ARC Ritsumeikan (Tokyo Metropolitan Library) 5722-C060-02; Hankyu Bunka Coll. 1122-1/-2/-3
sold