Kunisada: Nakamura Shikan with Magical Feather Robe バン雀太郎

Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865)
Title:  Nakamura Shikan with Magical Feather Robe in the role of Suzume Taro バン雀太郎

Series: Competition of the art of magic done by Toyokuni 豊国揮毫奇術競 (Toyokuni kigô kijutsu arasoi)
Date: 1862

We see the actor Nakamura Shikan IV wearing a resplendent feathered cloak. There is a very famous Noh play that features a magical feather robe, but this role and play are not easily identifiable. The actor plays a woman, who grasps a fabric bundle in her teeth while holding a pose. The outer robe is stunning, with bird’s wings decoration on the folded down upper portion, and long feather streamers on the lower half.  First edition works from this series, as here, are prized for their luxurious printing. Printed on heavy paper with mica in the sky and many areas of blindprinting.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition.

Dimensions: ôban (36.4 x 24.5 cm)  Publisher: Hirano-ya
Signature: kio Toyokuni hitsu

SKU: KUS534