Adachi, T. after Toshusai Sharaku "Ichikawa Ebizo as Takemura Sadanoshin"

T. Adachi after Toshusai Sharaku (active 1794-95). "Ichikawa Ebizo as Takemura Sadanoshin".

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: 

"Kinikuniya Tosshi"  

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

"Ichikawa Komazo as Shiga Daishichi"

"Otani Oniji II as Edohei, a Yakko"