Kunichika: Nakamura Shikan IV as Tattooed Danshichi (Sold)

Artist: Toyohara Kunichika
Title: Nakamura Shikan as Tattooed Danshichi
Date: 1872

Nakamura Shikan IV as Danshichi Kurobe strikes a dramatic pose. His large tattoo features a Chinese lion and red peonies, and he wears a red loincloth and brandishes a staff above his head. The quality of the printing is exceptional, with shiny imitation lacquer on the frame and a very subtle blindprinting on the white towel, as well as exquisite details on the face. The figure is made more dramatic with the contrast of the deep red background and the black western-style framing device. Note how the hair covering his ear is somehow translucent--a real display of the mastery of the printmakers. Danshichi Kurobei is the (anti) hero in the play Natsu Matsuri Naniwa Kagami, which has been in the kabuki repertoire since 1745, and is still one of its most popular plays.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition Mint.
Dimensions: ôban (35.9 x 24.9 cm)
Signature: Toyohara Kunichika hitsu (with toshidama seal)

SKU: KCA086