Chūshingura e-kyōdai (Picture Brothers of the Treasury of Loyal Retainers)

Cartographer / Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III)

Date Created: c. 1850

Medium: Color woodblock print (nishiki-e) on paper

Physical Dimensions: 9.6 × 13.7 in

Geographic Scope: Edo (Tokyo), Japan

Archive Catalog ID: multi1-img-2273

Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive

Collection: Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychs

This dramatic mid-nineteenth-century woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) belongs to the series Chūshingura e-kyōdai ('Picture Brothers of the Chūshingura'). The central composition depicts figures dressed in the iconic dark blue haori decorated with bold white saw-tooth (dandara) mountain patterns, directly referencing the theatrical costumes worn by the 47 Ronin during their famous night raid. The main figures engage in an intense, physical struggle while wearing white headcloths (zukin), creating a striking dynamic full of kinetic energy and theatrical emotion. In the upper left circular inset (kagamie), a miniature dramatic scene depicts a key dramatic moment from the Kabuki adaptation of the revenge of the Loyal Retainers, featuring samurai in night-attack attire engaged in combat. To the right, a tall pile of tatami mats with small sake or tea cups on top anchors the background. Printed with rich indigo dyes, fine detailing on textiles, and crisp line work, this sheet exemplifies the peak of late Edo period ukiyo-e printmaking.

Condition: Vibrant color impression with deep indigo blues and clear seal impressions.. Minor age-toning and light handling wear around the outer margins.. Single sheet ukiyo-e print, unmounted with full woodblock borders visible.

Chūshingura e-kyōdai (Picture Brothers of the Treasury of Loyal Retainers)
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Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychsc. 1850

Chūshingura e-kyōdai (Picture Brothers of the Treasury of Loyal Retainers)

By Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III)

Archival Overview & Authenticated Facts

Authentic period c. 1850 Color woodblock print (nishiki-e) on paper by Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) documenting Edo (Tokyo), Japan. Measures 9.6 × 13.7 in. Verified original holding from the Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive.

Acquisition StatusPrice Upon Request
Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive • 100% Guaranteed Authentic Original

Physical Specifications & Details

Medium & Technique
Color woodblock print (nishiki-e) on paper
Sheet / Plate Size
9.6 × 13.7 in
Date / Era
c. 1850
Geographic Scope
Edo (Tokyo), Japan
Archive Catalog ID
multi1-img-2273
Provenance
The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Preservation & Condition Report
  • Vibrant color impression with deep indigo blues and clear seal impressions.
  • Minor age-toning and light handling wear around the outer margins.
  • Single sheet ukiyo-e print, unmounted with full woodblock borders visible.

Historical Context & Archival Analysis

This dramatic mid-nineteenth-century woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) belongs to the series Chūshingura e-kyōdai ('Picture Brothers of the Chūshingura'). The central composition depicts figures dressed in the iconic dark blue haori decorated with bold white saw-tooth (dandara) mountain patterns, directly referencing the theatrical costumes worn by the 47 Ronin during their famous night raid. The main figures engage in an intense, physical struggle while wearing white headcloths (zukin), creating a striking dynamic full of kinetic energy and theatrical emotion. In the upper left circular inset (kagamie), a miniature dramatic scene depicts a key dramatic moment from the Kabuki adaptation of the revenge of the Loyal Retainers, featuring samurai in night-attack attire engaged in combat. To the right, a tall pile of tatami mats with small sake or tea cups on top anchors the background. Printed with rich indigo dyes, fine detailing on textiles, and crisp line work, this sheet exemplifies the peak of late Edo period ukiyo-e printmaking.

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Every map, fine print, and photograph offered by Rubini Antique Maps and Prints is an authenticated, 100% original period work produced during its stated publication date or era. We never sell modern reproductions or digital facsimiles. All cataloged items carry verified provenance originating from the historical collection of Dr. Joseph R. Rubini, backed by complete historical attribution.