Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A vibrant, three-panel woodblock print triptych (obon size) depicting a dramatic historical or legendary gathering of samurai warriors, courtly figures, and attendants. The scene is filled with expressive, theatrical faces, rich textile patterns, and atmospheric interior details typical of the late Edo period's narrative style.
Story
Created in 1861 by a master of the Utagawa school, this triptych captures the high-stakes drama of Japan's legendary past. The theatrical expressions and dynamic poses mirror the intense energy of Kabuki theater, which captivated Edo-period audiences.
Maker / Origin
Utagawa Yoshitora (active c. 1836–1887) was a prominent pupil of the legendary Utagawa Kuniyoshi. He was highly regarded for his dynamic warrior prints (musha-e), historical scenes, and later, his fascinating 'Yokohama-e' depicting Westerners in Japan.
Condition & Value
The prints show some minor edge wear, light creasing, and typical age-toning, but the colors remain remarkably bright and the sheets have not been backed, preserving the original bleed-through. Excellent preservation of color adds a premium to the value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.