Kuniyoshi: Shirai Gonpachi with Robe with Cursive Script (Sold)

Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861)
Title: Shirai Gonpachi
Series: Men of Ready Money with True Labels Attached, Kuniyoshi Fashion: Kuniyoshi moyô shôfuda zuketari genkin otoko
Date: ca. 1845

Shirai Gonpachi, a robber and murderer in the late 17th century, was famous as a lover of Komurasaki. In this picture he holds a spotted scarf over his shoulders and a shakuhachi stuck in the back of his girdle. His outer robe features the stylish fabric with cursive writing. This series features large, boldly drawn half-length figures of otokodate dramatic characters on grey ground with a poem above. The title of this series probably echoes that of a play, Shôfuda tsuki kongen kusazuri, staged at the Kawarazaki theatre in the first month of the second year of Kôka period (February 1845). Due to the remaining influence of the Tenpô reforms, Kuniyoshi could not portray realistically the Kabuki actors. A poem by Ryûkatei Tanekazu.

Condition: Excellent impression and color. Very good condition. Slight trimming.
Dimensions: ôban.
Publisher: Kinsei-dô: Ibaya Hisabei
Literature: B.W.Robinson:Kuniyoshi, 1982. p.126
Seal: nanushi seal: Hama Yahei (used 1842-46)
Signature: Ichiyûsai Kuniyoshi ga with his paulownia seal

SKU: KUY241