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Tag: Toshusai Sharaku

CategoriesExperience

Do You Know the Difference Between Ukiyo-e from Kansai (Kamigata) and Tokyo (Edo)?

By ninjakotan

Understanding This Might Reveal the True Identity of Sharaku   The Differences Between Ukiyo-e from Kansai (Kamigata) and Tokyo (Edo) In a previous post, I wrote that “Ukiyo-e is a genre of painting that was established in the early Edo period.” This statement is generally accepted. However, according to the website of the Kamigata Ukiyo-e Museum (1-6-4 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka), “Hand-painted ukiyo-e originated in Kamigata during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1603). Famous examples include Shijo-Kawara no Zu and Rakuchu Rakugai Zu.” I’ll leave the exact timing of the birth of ukiyo-e to the scholars, but today, I will explore the differences between ukiyo-e from Kansai (Kamigata) and Tokyo (Edo). Nishiki-e (full-color woodblock prints) were invented in Edo in 1765. Later, in 1791, ukiyo-e prints, known as Kamigata ukiyo-e, began to be produced in Kansai (Kamigata) as well. Kamigata ukiyo-e, primarily created in Osaka, predominantly depicted kabuki actors. Unlike Edo’s actor prints, which idealized the actors, Kamigata ukiyo-e portrayed them with human qualities. These prints were characterized by their lack of flamboyance, natural depiction, and intense gazes. Overseas, they are popular as “Osaka Prints.” Kamigata ukiyo-e rarely featured Bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) or Meisho-e (landscape prints). In Kamigata, there was aread moreDo You Know the Difference Between Ukiyo-e from Kansai (Kamigata) and Tokyo (Edo)?

CategoriesExperience

The Enigmatic Ukiyo-e Artist, Sharaku, and His Connection to Kagurazaka

By ninjakotan

The Enigmatic Ukiyo-e Artist, Sharaku, and His Connection to Kagurazaka       Who is Sharaku? Toshusai Sharaku is a unique figure in the world of Ukiyo-e. In a brief period between May 1794 and January 1795, he produced over 145 works primarily focused on actor portraits, and then suddenly vanished. His prolific output in such a short time and his mysterious disappearance leave many unanswered questions.    Characteristics of Sharaku’s Art Sharaku’s works are distinguished by their unique expressive power. His portraits of actors are boldly and realistically captured, which was unusual for the time. This approach quickly made him popular but also controversial due to his unflinchingly real depictions of actors. One of his most famous pieces, “Otani Oniji III as Yakko Edobei,” vividly portrays the actor’s expressions and gestures.    The True Identity of Sharaku Over the years, various theories about Sharaku’s identity have been proposed. Recently, the theory that Sharaku was Saito Jurobei, a Noh actor in the service of the Awa Tokushima Domain, has gained traction. According to this theory, Saito Jurobei temporarily took up painting while serving the daimyo. His existence and his work as a painter have been substantiated through various documents, includingread moreThe Enigmatic Ukiyo-e Artist, Sharaku, and His Connection to Kagurazaka

CategoriesExperience

Discover the Magic of “Japanese Wood Block Prints Experience in Tokyo”

By ninjakotan

Dive into the World of Sharaku through “Japanese Wood Block Prints Experience in Tokyo” The vibrant city of Tokyo offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of traditional Japanese woodblock prints, a technique that has captivated art lovers for centuries. Toshusai Sharaku stands out as a mysterious and influential figure among the illustrious names associated with this art form. Known for his dramatic and expressive portraits of kabuki actors, Sharaku’s works continue to fascinate art historians and enthusiasts eager to connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage.   Experience Sharaku’s Legacy at Takahashi Studio – Tokyo’s Oldest Ukiyo-e Studio At the heart of Tokyo lies Takahashi Studio, the oldest ukiyo-e studio in Japan, where the spirit of Sharaku is alive and thriving. This venerable establishment offers visitors the chance to own a piece of history, with authentic reproductions of Sharaku’s woodblock prints crafted by skilled artisans. Each print reflects the meticulous detail and passion that Sharaku infused into his original works, making it a treasured addition to any art collection. But Takahashi Studio offers more than just the chance to purchase these timeless pieces. It invites you to step into the shoes of a ukiyo-e artist through aread moreDiscover the Magic of “Japanese Wood Block Prints Experience in Tokyo”