Antique Japanese Color Woodblock Print-Osaka, Japan, Edo Period, c. 1840–1860

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Description

Title:

hasegawa sadanobu i (1809–1879)
two kabuki actors in dramatic aragoto roles
original antique japanese color woodblock print (nishiki-e), ōban … Read more Title:

hasegawa sadanobu i (1809–1879)
two kabuki actors in dramatic aragoto roles
original antique japanese color woodblock print (nishiki-e), ōban tate-e diptych (complete)
osaka, japan, late edo period, c. 1840–1860

description:

artist: hasegawa sadanobu i 長谷川貞信 (1809–1879), the leading master of the osaka / kamigata school of ukiyo-e
signature: 長谷川貞信筆 (hasegawa sadanobu hitsu)
publisher’s seal: 貞房 (sadabō) in red, typical for sadanobu’s private or small-edition works

subject:
a powerful and extremely theatrical yakusha-e (kabuki actor print) showing two actors in full aragoto style: the upper figure in a magnificent blue-and-white patterned robe with swirling cloud motifs, the lower figure in an elaborate floral kimono, both armed with swords and striking dramatic mie poses. The composition is typical of osaka-school kabuki prints from the 1840s–1850s and very likely illustrates a scene from a popular play such as yoshitsune senbon zakura, kanadehon chūshingura or another historical drama performed at the great osaka theatres (naka-za, kado-za).

format: complete ōban diptych (two sheets forming one image)
sheet size (visible image area): approx. 37 × 25 cm
framed size: 39.5 × 28 cm (vintage gilded wooden frame with beautiful patina)

condition:
genuine lifetime impression from the mid-19th century, never removed from its original backing board and never relined or heavily restored. Colors remain surprisingly strong for an osaka print of this age (rich indigo blues, soft pinks, and delicate line work), with only light overall toning and scattered age-related foxing spots. Minor marginal creases and tiny edge nicks, but no tears, no repairs, and no significant fading. The reverse shows the original 19th-century glue residues and untouched cardboard backing — clear evidence of a print that has remained in european or american ownership since the late 19th / early 20th century. Presented in its period gilded frame which shows appropriate wear yet remains stable and very decorative.

a bold, dramatic, and completely authentic osaka-school kabuki print by one of the most important kamigata artists of the 19th century. Prints by hasegawa sadanobu i are considerably rarer on the western market than their edo counterparts (kunisada, kuniyoshi, hiroshige) and are highly prized by collectors of theatrical ukiyo-e.

ships worldwide, carefully packed. Offered with the original antique frame (frame can be removed and the print shipped flat upon buyer’s request). A striking and genuine piece of mid-19th-century japanese theatre history.

we ship the item by ups or dhl\. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
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