Japanese Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Triptych by Katsukawa Shuntei, c.1810s

Story

During the early 19th century, Edo's urban public craved thrilling tales of legendary samurai battling supernatural forces. This triptych brought those blockbusters to life, functioning like a modern cinematic movie poster.

Maker / Origin

Katsukawa Shuntei (1770–1820) was a prominent pupil of Katsukawa Shun'ei. He was highly celebrated for his dynamic warrior prints (musha-e) and depictions of historical battles, infusing his figures with a sense of raw energy, tension, and dramatic movement that influenced later masters like Kuniyoshi.

Condition & Value

The triptych shows significant wear consistent with its age, including frayed and uneven margins, minor paper losses along the edges, visible creasing, and horizontal fold lines. There are also small wormholes and some staining, but the colors remain relatively clear and the dramatic central imagery is well-preserved.