Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

The painting "One of the portraits from the collection of portraits, Portraits of an Actor" by Toyohara Kunichika is an exemplary work that vividly captures the essence of kabuki theater and its vibrant characters. This artwork is a woodblock print, typical of the ukiyo-e genre that flourished in Edo-period Japan.

The portrait presents an actor in mid-performance, immortalized in a moment of intense emotion. The actor's face is the focal point, rendered with intricate detail that highlights his exaggerated expressions—a characteristic feature of kabuki makeup, or *kumadori*. Every brushstroke emphasizes the dramatic eyebrows, bold lines, and striking colors that signify various emotions and character traits. The actor's robes are depicted in dazzling hues of deep reds, rich blues, and shimmering golds, adorned with intricate patterns and textures that display Kunichika's mastery in capturing details.

Behind the actor, a background of subdued yet elegant colors subtly highlights the figure, enhancing the theatrical ambiance. Traditional Japanese elements such as blooming chrysanthemums or stylized waves may further embellish the background, providing cultural context and depth to the scene. Kunichika's use of light and shadow gives the portrait a three-dimensional feel, making the figure appear as if emerging from the wooden surface to perform.

Information about the Original Painting and the Artist:

Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) was a prominent ukiyo-e artist known for his vivid and expressive portraits, particularly those of kabuki actors. His real name was Yasohachi Ōshima, but he is better known by his artist name "Kunichika." He was a student of the esteemed ukiyo-e master Utagawa Kunisada, which greatly influenced his style and thematic choices.

This specific portrait belongs to a larger series known as "Portraits of an Actor," which showcases various kabuki performers in elaborate costumes and dramatic poses. These works are significant as they encapsulate the rich theatrical culture of Edo-period Japan, which was a central entertainment form of the time.

The original collection of these portraits can be found in various institutions worldwide, with significant holdings at the Tokyo National Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and the British Museum, among others. These institutions house some of Kunichika's finest works, allowing scholars and art enthusiasts to appreciate the intricate beauty and cultural importance of ukiyo-e art.

Artistic Movements and Career Context:

Kunichika's work is firmly rooted in the ukiyo-e tradition, a genre that translates to "pictures of the floating world." This art form was known for its depictions of the pleasures of urban life, including courtesans, sumo wrestlers, and notably, kabuki actors. During his career, Kunichika continued to innovate within this genre, particularly through his dynamic use of color and strong linear compositions that brought a sense of immediacy and emotional intensity to his portraits.

Kunichika's portraits were not only artistic endeavors but also served as promotional tools for the kabuki theater. They celebrated and advertised the fame of actors, making his works significant both culturally and commercially. His keen business sense, combined with his artistic talent made him a pivotal figure in the ukiyo-e movement during a time when modernization and Western influences began to permeate Japan.

Noteworthy Details:

- Kunichika’s portraits are notable for their dramatic use of facial expressions and postures, which are designed to capture the heightened emotion of kabuki performances.
- The elaborate costumes and makeup, which are meticulously detailed, offer insights into the traditional aesthetics and fashion of the Edo period.
- His ability to render subtle variations in color and pattern through woodblock printing is testament to his technical skill and artistic vision.
- Kunichika's works reflect both individual prowess as well as broader historical and cultural narratives, marking them as significant records of Japanese artistic heritage.

Overall, "One of the portraits from the collection of portraits, Portraits of an Actor" by Toyohara Kunichika is a significant piece that offers a window into the dynamic world of kabuki and the mastery of ukiyo-e artistry.