"EHON BUTAI OGI" (A PICTURE BOOK OF STAGE FANS), HAND-COLORED JAPANESE WOODBLOCK PRINTS (1) (SOLD)

This original Japanese woodblock print comes from the illustrated Kabuki theater book Ehon Butai Ogi or "A Picture Book of Stage Fans". One of the oldest classical forms of dance-drama, Kabuki is an exciting and interactive theater that dates back over 400 years. Two of the greatest artists in actor portraiture were Ippitsusai Buncho (1755-1792) and Katsukawa Shunsho (1726-1792) and together they designed the most dynamic series of kabuki portraits of the mid-18th century. Both artists were brilliant in representing the individual character of each actor by using subtle variations in their facial features. These inspired Japanese fan prints are perfect expressions of their creativity and present a vivid depiction of the kabuki theater.

This publication is from the late 19th Century. Excellent condition! No rips or tears. Almost no foxing.