Utagawa KUNISADA II (1823-1880)



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The Actor Bando Mitsuemon I as Akaiwa Gajiro from the set Hakkenden inu no soshi no uchi , “Stories of the Eight Dog Heroes.” Published by Tsutaya Kichizo, 1852. The extremely lengthy novel by Kyokutei Bakin took 30 years to complete and was turned into a very successful play which was premiered at the Ichimura-za Theatre, 1/1852. The convoluted story tells of the supernatural offspring from the coupling of Princess Fuse and her father’s dog Yatsufusa. They are later reborn to normal mothers and the plot revolves around their gradual discovery of each other. A fine set.

Very fine impression with extensive burnishing. Later printings omit the burnishing on the costume and replace it with bokashi. Fine colour. Small binding holes, otherwise fine condition. Full size. Signed Kunisada ga.

Status: Sold

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