Kuniyoshi, Utagawa (1797 - 1861)

The actor Nakamura Utaemon IV as the ghost of Ôtaka Shuden. Published by Ôtaya Takichi in 1848. Censors: Muramatsu & Yoshimura.

Euro sold

Very good impression and colours, good condition. Unbacked, repaired binding holes left. A very interesting feature is the use of glue mixed with red pigment on taka's waist and shoulder to indicate gore, a technique also used by Yoshitoshi on his bloodier prints. The light red of the flames looks as if retouched (detailed pics available), on the other hand it is possible that this is a deliberate printed cross-grained effect. VERY RARE!

Literature: Robert Schaap, Heroes & Ghosts, plate 170.