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His first works date from the early 1850's, his first
signed print, "picture by student Yasohachi", from 1852.
His new artist's name "Kunichika" dates from 1854. His
status within the studio grew and by the time of
Kunisada's death in 1865, Kunichika had been
commissioned to produce several portraits of his
teacher, and after Kunisada's death, was commissioned
to design two memorial portraits. His increasing
importance can be found in the Saikenki, a type of
popular guide containing ratings of ukiyo-e artists. In
publications dating from 1865, 1867 and 1885,
Kunichika's name appears among the top ten; in eighth,
fifth and fourth place, respectively.
Kunichika was little concerned for material wealth or
personal appearance and was often in debt. He
thoroughly enjoyed partying and drinking and fancied
the theatre. His interest in Kabuki and his portrayal of
its actors gave him entree to their world and he spent
hours backstage documenting the poses and facial
expressions of the actors in their various roles.
Contemporary reports observed that his use of color in
his actor prints was the most skilful aspect of his art, in
keeping with the Utagawa tradition. A master of
theatrical prints, Kunichika documented the history of
the Mejia-era Kabuki. His oban bust portraits are well
known, but his Kabuki triptychs are among the most
dramatic ever produced. He remained active up to the
end of his life with documented works dating to only
months before his death.
142. [Kabuki Actors]
Woodblock print (nishiki-e)
Kunichika Toyohara (1835-1900)
c. 1870
Ôban tate-e triptych [Each sheet 14 x 9 1/2 inches]
Signature: Toyohara Kunichika hitsu
Seal: Toshidama
[27391]
£360
Topography
Oxford
Kunichika died on July 19th, 1900 at the age of 65, due
to poor health and heavy drinking. His grave can still be
found at the Buddhist Shingon-sect temple of Honryuji
in Imado, Asakusa. His death marked the end of an era
of full-color woodblock actor prints and the end of the
Ukiyo-e print tradition.
Condition: Two small worm holes to top of centre and
right panel. [27388]
£325
141. [Kabuki Actors]
Woodblock print (nishiki-e)
Kunichika Toyohara (1835-1900)
c. 1870
Ôban tate-e triptych [Each sheet 14 x 9 1/2 inches]
mounted
Signature: Toyohara Kunichika hitsu
Seal: Toshidama
[27390]
£375
143. The Spires of Oxford
Etching and drypoint
K. Vernon
c. 1920
Image 124 x 200, Plate 152 x 200 mm, Sheet 201 x 238
mm
mounted
A scarce view of Oxford from New College Tower.
[27713]
£150