A haunting and emotionally resonant Japanese woodblock print by Utagawa Toyokuni III, also known as Kunisada, one of the most prolific and celebrated artists of the Utagawa school. Likely produced between 1844 and the 1860s, this original, mid-19th-century ukiyo-e print captures a powerful theatrical moment steeped in drama, ritual, and grief.
At the center of the composition is a ghostly woman with cascading black hair and a boldly patterned kimono, reaching toward a tattooed monk who appears slumped in sorrow or at the edge of death. Stylized waves surround them, adding to the scene's emotional tension and suggesting supernatural elements common in kabuki theater and Edo-period storytelling. Behind them, a third figure in red crouches with her face hidden, visibly overcome, perhaps mourning the man's passing or witnessing the return of a spirit.
The vertical inscription at right reads "香è¶æ¥¼ 豊国画" (KÅchÅrÅ Toyokuni ga), which translates to "drawn by Toyokuni (KÅchÅrÅ)," a name used by Kunisada after he succeeded the title of Toyokuni III in 1844. The small red circle, while visually reminiscent of a Zen ensÅ, is in fact part of the artist's seal design, not a religious symbol. Beneath this, another vertical cartouche credits the woodblock carver: 彫工 庄次郎 (HorikÅ ShÅjirÅ), an artisan responsible for carving the artist's design into wood.
The print is archivally matted and professionally framed in a brushed silver-tone frame and is ready to hang. A label on the reverse misattributes the work to Toyokuni I (1769–1825), a common Western error from earlier framing eras. Wired and ready to hang.
A visually and emotionally powerful example of Edo-period Japanese printmaking, this piece offers a dramatic glimpse into 19th-century kabuki culture and the collaborative artistry of woodblock design and carving.

Frame: 15.25" wide, .75" deep, and 20.25" high.
Approx. visible art: 8.5" wide and 9.25" high.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Very good overall condition. Print shows minor age toning. Frame has small scuffs and scratches consistent with age. There are also a few very small marks visible under the glass or on the mat, none distracting. Matting and backing appear professionally done.

Origin:
Japan

Creator:
Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni Iii)

Materials & Techniques:
Glass, Metal, Paper

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Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Very good overall condition. Print shows minor age toning. Frame has small scuffs and scratches consistent with age. There are also a few very small marks visible under the glass or on the mat, none distracting. Matting and backing appear professionally done.