Kunisada: Kawarazaki Gonjuro I as Jiraiya Holding Compass

Artist: Utagawa Kunisada 豊国三代
Title: Kawarazaki Gonjuro I as Jiraiya Holding Compass

Series: Allusions to the Zodiac Signs (Nazorae-Eto-Awase)  擬絵当合 also called “A Calendar of Hit Comparisons with Picture Play”
Date: 1861

The actor Kawarazaki Gonjuro I is shown in a dark forest, holding his compass unwrapped in his hand and looking up towards the sky. In the inset cartouche, which is shaped like a gourd, is Arashi Rikan as Yuminosuke. The referenced play is of course Jiraiya goketsu monogatari. In this series there are twelve zodiac designs and ten element signs represented. This is the fifth sign, of Bo, tsuchi-no-e, which represents the yang aspect of the Earth element. The first part was published in 1852, and the second part in 1861.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition. Clean and beautifully printed.
Dimensions: ôban (36.5 x 24.5 cm)
Publisher: Ebisuya Shoshichi

Signature: Toyokuni ga

SKU: KUS557