Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) Japanese Woodblock Prints, 'Thirty-Six Selected Flowers' Series, c. 1850s–1860s

Story

In 1850s Edo, kabuki actors were the rockstars of Japan. Fans eagerly bought cheap, colorful woodblock prints pairing their favorite idols with poetic floral metaphors.

Maker / Origin

Utagawa Kunisada (1786–1864), who later took the prestigious name Toyokuni III, was arguably the most prolific and commercially successful ukiyo-e artist of the 19th century. Head of the influential Utagawa school, he set the aesthetic standard for late Edo kabuki portraits and depictions of beautiful women, producing thousands of iconic designs.

Condition & Value

The top and bottom examples show strong color preservation, rich dark grounds, and vibrant blues and reds. The center prints show noticeable fading/light-toning in comparison. Trimming of margins may be present. Well-preserved color and untrimmed borders command the upper end of the valuation range.