Kabuki Actors as Historical Figures: Oda Nobunaga, Akechi Mitsuhide, and Tokugawa Ieyasu

Cartographer / Artist: Toyohara Kunichika (1835–1900)

Date Created: 1878 (Meiji 11)

Medium: Original woodblock print triptych album sheet with gallery documentation

Physical Dimensions: 27.7 × 13.5 in

Geographic Scope: Tokyo, Japan

Archive Catalog ID: multi1-kunichika-kabuki-triptych

Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive

Collection: Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychs

This vivid Meiji-era woodblock print triptych was created in 1878 (Meiji 11) by master printmaker Toyohara Kunichika, depicting renowned Kabuki actors in the roles of legendary Sengoku-period warlords and figures including Oda Nobunaga, Akechi Mitsuhide, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Set against a striking crimson backdrop—a signature hallmark of late 19th-century Japanese woodblock art—the composition highlights the intense facial expressions (mie poses) and dynamic dramatic interaction characteristic of Kabuki theater. Detailed crests, elaborate brocade costumes, and mythical dragon iconography adorn the figures, demonstrating exceptional carving and printing craftsmanship.\n\nAs one of the final great masters of the ukiyo-e tradition, Kunichika specialized in actor portraits (yakusha-e) during a period of rapid modernization in Japan. The work illustrates how traditional historical dramas (jidai-mono) maintained high popularity among urban audiences during the Meiji period. This multi-panel print preserves both the theatrical performance history of the era and the vibrant aesthetic innovations introduced by modern imported dyes.

Condition: Vibrant, deep aniline red pigments with rich color saturation across all three joined sheets.. Light horizontal and vertical seam creasing consistent with historic album mounting.. Minor age toning near margins with crisp impression quality and visible carver/publisher marks.

Kabuki Actors as Historical Figures: Oda Nobunaga, Akechi Mitsuhide, and Tokugawa Ieyasu
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Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychs1878 (Meiji 11)

Kabuki Actors as Historical Figures: Oda Nobunaga, Akechi Mitsuhide, and Tokugawa Ieyasu

By Toyohara Kunichika (1835–1900)

Archival Overview & Authenticated Facts

Authentic period 1878 (Meiji 11) Original woodblock print triptych album sheet with gallery documentation by Toyohara Kunichika (1835–1900) documenting Tokyo, Japan. Measures 27.7 × 13.5 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
Original woodblock print triptych album sheet with gallery documentation
Sheet / Plate Size
27.7 × 13.5 in
Date / Era
1878 (Meiji 11)
Geographic Scope
Tokyo, Japan
Archive Catalog ID
multi1-kunichika-kabuki-triptych
Provenance
The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Preservation & Condition Report
  • Vibrant, deep aniline red pigments with rich color saturation across all three joined sheets.
  • Light horizontal and vertical seam creasing consistent with historic album mounting.
  • Minor age toning near margins with crisp impression quality and visible carver/publisher marks.

Historical Context & Archival Analysis

This vivid Meiji-era woodblock print triptych was created in 1878 (Meiji 11) by master printmaker Toyohara Kunichika, depicting renowned Kabuki actors in the roles of legendary Sengoku-period warlords and figures including Oda Nobunaga, Akechi Mitsuhide, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Set against a striking crimson backdrop—a signature hallmark of late 19th-century Japanese woodblock art—the composition highlights the intense facial expressions (mie poses) and dynamic dramatic interaction characteristic of Kabuki theater. Detailed crests, elaborate brocade costumes, and mythical dragon iconography adorn the figures, demonstrating exceptional carving and printing craftsmanship.\n\nAs one of the final great masters of the ukiyo-e tradition, Kunichika specialized in actor portraits (yakusha-e) during a period of rapid modernization in Japan. The work illustrates how traditional historical dramas (jidai-mono) maintained high popularity among urban audiences during the Meiji period. This multi-panel print preserves both the theatrical performance history of the era and the vibrant aesthetic innovations introduced by modern imported dyes.

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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.