Kabuki Theater Scene Album Sheet Featuring Kagekiyo and Demon Confrontation

Cartographer / Artist: Unknown (Japanese School)

Date Created: c. 1930

Medium: Woodblock print portfolio album sheet with color woodcut illustrations

Physical Dimensions: 9.1 × 6.7 in

Geographic Scope: Tokyo, Japan

Archive Catalog ID: multi1-img-2271

Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive

Collection: Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychs

This vibrant Japanese woodblock print album sheet features two distinct rectangular panels depicting iconic Kabuki theatrical scenes. The right panel is explicitly labeled with a yellow cartouche reading Kagekiyo (景清), referring to the famous Heian-era warrior Taira no Kagekiyo, a central hero in the Kabuki Juhachiban (Eighteen Greatest Plays). Dressed in elaborate, heavily patterned garments of crimson, yellow, and deep green, Kagekiyo displays dramatic red kumadori makeup, signaling righteous fury and heroic spirit, as he grips a sword guard in a powerful mie pose. The left panel depicts an intense supernatural confrontation between a demon-like antagonist with striking blue kumadori makeup and wild black hair, wielding a wooden mallet, and a devout figure below clad in yellow robes holding Buddhist prayer beads (juzu). Set against rich purple background fields, both scenes exhibit traditional Japanese color block techniques, expressive theatrical facial anatomy, and dynamic linework characteristic of twentieth-century theatrical printmaking.

Condition: Vibrant and saturated color preservation across both woodcut panels.. Mild uniform toning to the outer beige album mounting card.. Clean edges with slight wear around the outer margins of the backing sheet.

Kabuki Theater Scene Album Sheet Featuring Kagekiyo and Demon Confrontation
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Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychsc. 1930

Kabuki Theater Scene Album Sheet Featuring Kagekiyo and Demon Confrontation

By Unknown (Japanese School)

Archival Overview & Authenticated Facts

Authentic period c. 1930 Woodblock print portfolio album sheet with color woodcut illustrations by Unknown (Japanese School) documenting Tokyo, Japan. Measures 9.1 × 6.7 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
Woodblock print portfolio album sheet with color woodcut illustrations
Sheet / Plate Size
9.1 × 6.7 in
Date / Era
c. 1930
Geographic Scope
Tokyo, Japan
Archive Catalog ID
multi1-img-2271
Provenance
The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Preservation & Condition Report
  • Vibrant and saturated color preservation across both woodcut panels.
  • Mild uniform toning to the outer beige album mounting card.
  • Clean edges with slight wear around the outer margins of the backing sheet.

Historical Context & Archival Analysis

This vibrant Japanese woodblock print album sheet features two distinct rectangular panels depicting iconic Kabuki theatrical scenes. The right panel is explicitly labeled with a yellow cartouche reading Kagekiyo (景清), referring to the famous Heian-era warrior Taira no Kagekiyo, a central hero in the Kabuki Juhachiban (Eighteen Greatest Plays). Dressed in elaborate, heavily patterned garments of crimson, yellow, and deep green, Kagekiyo displays dramatic red kumadori makeup, signaling righteous fury and heroic spirit, as he grips a sword guard in a powerful mie pose. The left panel depicts an intense supernatural confrontation between a demon-like antagonist with striking blue kumadori makeup and wild black hair, wielding a wooden mallet, and a devout figure below clad in yellow robes holding Buddhist prayer beads (juzu). Set against rich purple background fields, both scenes exhibit traditional Japanese color block techniques, expressive theatrical facial anatomy, and dynamic linework characteristic of twentieth-century theatrical 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.