Description

Antique Japanese diptych woodblock print by the artist Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865) also known as Toyokuni III. The scene is of two beautiful ladies entertaining two men, most likely either samurai or actors in an elegant urban setting overlooking the harbor.

Kunisada was born to a family that owned a ferry boat service allowing him the time and money to devote to art. At an early age, he impressed the great master, Toyokuni I of the Utagawa school. He became his apprentice, officially adopting the name Kunisada around 1807. It was during this time that Kunisada’s book illustrations became popular. He is most famous for his actor portraits, bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) and scenes of life in Edo. Kunisada adopted his master’s name in 1844-1845 becoming Utagawa Toyokuni III. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the time.

Age: Edo Period

Dimensions: 14″ high x 19 1/2″ wide