Toyohara Kunichika – Kabuki Triptych: Takimiyama, Kumo, Saigawa

This vivid triptych by Toyohara Kunichika captures three prominent Kabuki actors—Daihachi Takimiyama, Jueman Kumo, and Hyozo Saigawa—in a moment of heightened theatrical drama. Characteristic of Kunichika's dynamic style, the print is awash in bold, saturated colors, particularly deep reds and purples, which emphasize the emotional gravity and visual richness of the performance. The stylized poses and intense facial expressions of the actors suggest a dramatic climax, filled with tension and layered meaning.

Set against a backdrop of cherry blossoms in bloom, the print subtly evokes the ephemeral nature of life—an aesthetic core to many Kabuki narratives and to Japanese art more broadly. Each panel is carefully composed to give equal narrative weight to each figure, preserving the integrity of the triptych format while drawing the viewer’s eye across the unified dramatic tableau. The elaborate costume designs and expressive makeup (kumadori) further reinforce the authenticity of the Kabuki portrayal.

As with many of Kunichika’s works, this print offers a fusion of theatrical tribute and visual artistry: a celebration of the actor’s celebrity and a lasting impression of the emotional power of performance. It is both an homage to performance and a masterpiece of Meiji-era woodblock printing.

• Toyohara Kunichika, late 19th century
• Approximate Size: 36cm x 24cm
• This woodblockprint is an antique and is sold as seen in the pictures. Please be aware that the colors on your screen may differ from natural light.