Accordion book of Yakusha-e, prints Kabuki actors. Book contains a preface in Japanese along with an illustrated story page and twelve actor portraits, one of which is a “Mirror Portrait”. The mirror portrait is of Nakamura Fukusuke in the role of Ohara Takematsu which is from "The mirror of today's picture" (Ima-yo oshie kagami). This has the censor’s seal Aratame with date, circa 1859, probably published by Fujiokaya Keijiro. Most other woodblocks have the publishers seal of Yokogawa, with date and publishers seals, most woodblocks appear to be published by Uoya Eikichi. The artist signature is enclosed in a “Toshidama” cartouche, signed "Toyokuni ga", circa 1859-1860. Each page is apprx 14-1/4” x 10-1/4”. The impressions are crisp and have wonderful color which is not faded and are very well registered. Some plates have the use of “Bokashi”, a gradation of color with applied green tone at lower area. Others have “Kirazuri”, the use of fine mica flakes which were scattered on the print while it was still wet, producing a sparkling effect. A memorandum tag has been applied to interior of cover, written for General Biddle by Mr. R.Y. Aka, dated July 11, 1957.
1,500/2,500 Sold $1,380.00
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