Shunkosai HOKUSHU (Fl. c 1808-1832)
Click here to view image full size.
The actor Nakamura Utaemon III as Kan Shojo in the play Sugawara denju tenarai kagami, “Mirror of Learning and Transmitting Sugawara’s Secrets of Calligraphy.” In fact based on stories relating to Sugawara Michizane (845 – 903, scholar, poet and politician). Government regulations prohibited the use of the names of real people in Kabuki. He is shown on a wood votive tablet. The play was performed at the Kado no Shibai Theatre, Osaka, 3/1823. In fact, Utaemon is supposed to have sensationally played 7 roles in this play. Poem above by Shikan (Utaemon’s poetry name). Published by Toshikuraya Shinbei (inscribed bottom left).
Fine impression. This is a wonderful example of kimetsubushi printing whereby the grain of the wood is exposed with stiff brushes or pads to enable the grain to be printed. Very good colour and condition. Signed Shunkosai Hokushu ga.
Status: Sold
Shunkosai HOKUSHU (Active 1809-1832)
Click here to view image full size.
Bando Mitsugoro III as Daihanji Kiyozumi and Arashi Koroku IV as the son Koganosuke in the play Imoseyama Onna Teikin. In fact a diptych ( see Keyes, The Theatrical World of Osaka Prints, no. 16, p. 72-73 ). The child Koganosoke resolves on a suicide pact with Hinadori ( shown on the other sheet ) after Soga no Iruka orders the children to be sent to his court to insure the family’s loyalty. Published 1821 by Wataki. ( There are two states known: With and without publisher’s seal. Some embellishments are added and some removed on the two states.)
Fine impression. Particularly well preserved colour. De-luxe impression. Gum and polishing on Koganosuke’s hair; blind printing on the blossom above. Some loss of brass. Signed Shunkosai Hokushu ga.
Status: Sold
Shunkosai HOKUSHU (active 1810-1832)
Click here to view image full size.
Yellow-ground bust portrait of Nakamura Utaemon III ( Inanoya Hanbei ). Published 3/1820. Rare: Another chirimen ( creped ) version is illustrated in Kamigata Prints in the former period: part 1, Tsubouchi Memorial Theatre Museum of Waseda University, no. 129, p. 33
Very good impression and colour. Slight creases and soil. Signed Shunkosai Hokushu ga.
Status: Sold