Utagawa Toyokuni, Matsumoto Kōshirō, 1800s, Paper

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Matsumoto kōshirō at the well – actor portrait by utagawa toyokuni i, c.1800 : this original japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print, … Read more Matsumoto kōshirō at the well – actor portrait by utagawa toyokuni i, c.1800 : this original japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print, created around 1800 by utagawa toyokuni i (1769–1825), depicts the celebrated kabuki actor matsumoto kōshirō in a moment of intense emotion and physical exertion. Toyokuni i, one of the great masters of the utagawa school, was renowned for his dynamic actor portraits (yakusha-e) that vividly conveyed character, drama, and movement — qualities that made his works central to the visual culture of edo-period theatre. In this composition, the actor is shown bending forward against a well, hands braced on the stone rim, his face marked by concentration. The subtle yet powerful gesture suggests a climactic moment in a kabuki performance, where inner turmoil and external action merge. The figure’s striped robe, drawn with toyokuni’s signature elegance, wraps in rhythmic folds around the actor’s body, while the muted color palette of rose, indigo, and soft gray enhances the theatrical mood. A willow tree, delicately rendered in pale blue-green, frames the upper background — a symbol often associated with melancholy and reflection in japanese visual art. The inscription to the right identifies the actor as matsumoto kōshirō, one of the most prominent names in edo kabuki, while the artist’s signature “toyokuni ga” (豊国画) appears below. This print likely formed part of a larger series of famous actor portraits, intended for theatre enthusiasts who collected these works as visual souvenirs of performances. Toyokuni’s ability to blend realism, grace, and expressive design marks this as a fine example of early 19th-century ukiyo-e craftsmanship. Condition report: overall good condition for age. Some light toning, faint creases, and scattered foxing consistent with age. Small edge wear and mild paper thinning in spots. The impression remains clear with strong linework and well-preserved color. Framing tips: this print displays beautifully in a simple black or dark wood frame with a soft off-white or pale ivory mat, which complements the natural tones and fine lines. Uv-protective glass is recommended to preserve the delicate pigments. Technique: woodblock print (ukiyo-e) maker: utagawa toyokuni i, japan, circa 1800 See less