Kunisada 国貞: Iwai Kumesaburo III as Rokunosuke with a Dragon Turtle Robe

Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865)

Title: Iwai Kumesaburo III as Rokunosuke

Series: Jidai moyo ataru shiranami (Notorious Thieves of the Day) Date: 1859

Dynamic portrait in the “chivalrous thieves” vein of actor prints. This beautifully printed work has mica along the top and the actor’s kimono is carefully decorated with a mythical dragon/turtle creature amidst splashing waves. The upper half of the kimono features the creature’s long, flowing tail. The dragon turtle is a combination of two of the four celestial animals of Chinese mythology, and its symbolic energies include courage and determination. Iwai Kumesaburo III as Rokunosuke holds what seems to be a straw mat rolled up behind his back. The mat seems to be wrapped around what might be a sword, as it is not entirely concealed. The character is dashing and fashionable  and a notorious thief. Handsome scoundrels are always in vogue, it seems. His pose of leaning into a situation looks like he might be trying to sneak up on someone, or perhaps eavesdrop on a conversation. From a rather rare series.

Condition: Excellent impression and color; very good condition. Two very small wormholes. Dimensions: ôban (37 x 24.6 cm)
Publisher: Uo-ya (Sakanaya Eikichi)Signature: Toyokuni ga

SKU: KUS621