Himekurabe Futaba Ezoshi, 1851

by Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)

Current Status

Himekurabe Futaba Ezoshi, 1851 by Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)

Original Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863) Japanese Woodblock Print
Himekurabe Futaba Ezoshi, 1851

Osaka Prints - Produced in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, Osaka prints or kamigata-e are instantly distinguishable from typical Edo ukiyo-e. A major difference is the choice of subject matter. Osaka prints were nearly always portraits of actors or kabuki scenes. In contrast, Edo print subjects included beauties, landscapes, nature scenes, warriors, and historic events, in addition to kabuki.

Distinctly different artistic styles also emerged in Edo and Osaka in the 18th and 19th century, resulting in certain recognizable characteristics for each area. Osaka prints feature more subtle, serious figures, reflecting the wagoto or soft style of acting prevalent in the area, along with distinctive facial expressions. The aragato or brash manner of acting popular in Edo influenced print designs towards bolder images of heroism and military prowess.

Much like the style of the prints, the demand for ukiyo-e in the cities of Osaka and Edo also varied. Osaka produced far fewer ukiyo-e designs than Edo did. As a consequence, Osaka prints are rarer and also some of the highest quality prints made in the 19th century, with many featuring deluxe techniques such as burnishing or embossing. Osaka prints are a rare and wonderful collecting area of Japanese woodblocks.

Special detail - Metallic silver and gold details that have oxidized to a darker tone on the kimono. From left, the actors are Kataoka Gado II as Oguri Hangan and Arashi Rikaku II as the yakko or footman Michisuke.

Artist - Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)

Image Size - 9 3/8" x 14"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two attached panels, backed with paper. Slight soiling and offsetting, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Himekurabe Futaba Ezoshi, 1851 by Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)
Himekurabe Futaba Ezoshi, 1851 by Hirosada (active circa 1847 - 1863)

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