Signed 1974 Mitsuaki Ichikawa Kabuki Woodblock Prints — Deluxe Shikishi Pair

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An extraordinary, museum-documented matching diptych pair of vintage 1974 Japanese woodblock prints (Shikishi rigid art board format) by the celebrated … Read more An extraordinary, museum-documented matching diptych pair of vintage 1974 Japanese woodblock prints (Shikishi rigid art board format) by the celebrated 20th-century theatrical master Mitsuaki Ichikawa (Ota Gakko/Masamitsu, 1892–1975). These pieces originate from the luxury series titled Shinsō Nishiki-e: Gendai Haiyū Hana no Uchi ("Newly Created Brocade Prints: The Flower of Contemporary Actors"), published by the elite Tokyo studio Kikujudō Isetatsu.

• The Subjects & Cast:

1. Print One (Kikugorō): Features the breathtaking onnagata performance of living national treasure Onoe Kikugorō VII in Mitsunin-gata no Keisei, framed by a canopy of pink spring cherry blossoms (sakura).

2. Print Two (Obō Kichisa): Features a striking portrait of the celebrated young actor Onoe Tatsunosuke I in his definitive role as the elegant rogue samurai Obō Kichisa from the classic masterpiece Sannin Kichisa. He is depicted gripping a katana hilt against a background of white winter plum blossoms (ume).

• Impeccable Official Provenance: The reverse side of both boards features fully intact, original historical Japanese biography certificates detailing the actors' lineages and stage triumphs. Print One is housed in their original, matching red-and-white patterned custom presentation gift box bearing the official stamped red logo seal of the world-famous Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza, Tokyo.

• Presentation: Meticulously pressed onto heavy, rigid decorative art blocks with clean black perimeter edges and exquisite, patterned reverse backing papers. Designed to be displayed standing on tabletop easels, leaning on floating shelves, or custom-framed.

• Condition: Immaculate, gallery-quality vintage condition. The colors remain incredibly vibrant, saturated, and bold with absolutely no fading, foxing, or edge wear. The rigid board corners are perfectly sharp.

• Dimensions: 11.5" W x 17" H x 0.63" D (Per Board)

A masterfully documented collection of 20th-century Japanese art and theatrical history. This premium pair provides a perfect, symmetrical design focus that effortlessly elevates high-end Mid-Century Modern or Japandi interiors. See less