Adachi, T. after Toshusai Sharaku "Kinikuniya Tosshi"

T. Adachi after Toshusai Sharaku (active 1794-95). "Kinikuniya Tosshi". 

(The actor Sawamura Sojuro III as Kujaku Saburo Narihira)

From the portfolio Sharaku, Vol. I. Tokyo: T. Adachi, 1940. 13 1/4 x 9 1/4. Color printed wood blocks by Adachi Color Print Studio. Edition: 40. In original paper mats with mounted print label. Reference: Achenback Foundation for Graphic Arts.

Toshusai Sharaku, who specialized in kabuki portraits, was active for only less than a year from 1794 to 1795 issuing about 150 known prints. These prints which were issued in the twentieth century are from a rare two volume set which contained 72 facsimile reproduction Japanese wood blocks individually mounted in protective paper mats with printed identification labels. Adachi was one of the most respected printers of the 20th century. These wood blocks were made using traditional nishiki-e methods, sumptuously done with applied powdered mica using the kira-zuri technique. 

Click the links below to view others from this series: 

"Ichikawa Komazo as Shiga Daishichi"

"Nakamura Konozo as Kanagawaya no Bon Nakajima and Wadaemon as Bodara no Chozaemon"

"Ichikawa Ebizo as Takemura Sadanoshin"

"Otani Oniji II as Edohei, a Yakko"