{"title":"Ippitsusai Buncho","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"crow-and-heron-actors-ichikawa-yaozo-ii-and-segawa-kikunojo-ii-as-two-young-lovers-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Crow and Heron: Actors Ichikawa Yaozo II and Segawa Kikunojo II as Two Young Lovers - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting two kabuki actors in a romantic scene under an umbrella.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a moment from the kabuki theatre, depicting the actors Ichikawa Yaozo II and Segawa Kikunojo II. The work belongs to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on the portrayal of famous actors in their stage roles. Here, the two figures are cast as young lovers, a common theme in the dramatic narratives of the Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō employs a refined aesthetic, favouring slender, elongated figures that possess a distinct grace. The composition is balanced, with the two actors positioned beneath a large, open umbrella. This device serves to unify the pair visually while providing a sense of intimacy. The male actor, dressed in dark robes, gestures towards the distance, while the female character, portrayed by a male actor in drag, looks on with a subtle expression. The background is minimal, suggesting a natural setting through the inclusion of a willow tree and sparse bamboo, which directs the viewer's attention to the costumes and the interaction between the characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colour palette is restrained, relying on soft tones that have mellowed over time. This print is a fine example of the artist's ability to convey character and emotion through posture and line. Bunchō was active during the mid-eighteenth century and is recognised for his contributions to the development of actor portraiture. His work often appeared in the Ehon Butai Ogi, a collection of prints documenting the theatre of the time. This particular piece reflects the stylised nature of kabuki performance, where gesture and costume were essential to the audience's understanding of the narrative. The print provides a glimpse into the cultural life of Edo Japan, where the theatre and the print industry were closely linked, allowing fans to collect images of their favourite performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58503440793935,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58503440859471,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58503440957775,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58503440990543,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58503441056079,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Crow-and-Heron_-Actors-Ichikawa-Yaozo-II-and-Segawa-Kikunojo-II-as-Two-Young-Lovers_Poster_CompositorV1_1786438236955.jpg?v=1787035404"},{"product_id":"actor-segawa-kikujiro-as-holding-a-calligraphic-handscroll-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Segawa Kikujirō as Holding a Calligraphic Handscroll - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the actor Segawa Kikujirō holding a calligraphic scroll, rendered in the traditional hosoban format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures the actor Segawa Kikujirō in a moment of performance. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and became known for his yakusha-e, or actor prints, which often utilised a narrow format known as hosoban. This specific work demonstrates the artist's ability to convey character through posture and gesture, rather than relying on exaggerated facial expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe figure is depicted in a graceful, slightly leaning pose, holding a long, unrolled handscroll inscribed with calligraphy. The kimono features a repeating leaf pattern, rendered with a restrained palette that allows the delicate line work to remain the primary focus. The artist employs a subtle use of colour, typical of the period, where soft tones are applied to define the fabric and the scroll. The composition is balanced, with the verticality of the scroll echoing the slender frame of the actor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō worked alongside Katsukawa Shunshō, and their collaboration on the book 'Ehon Butai Ōgi' remains a significant record of the theatrical styles of the time. This print reflects the aesthetic values of the Ukiyo-e school, where the ephemeral nature of the floating world was documented through the lives of popular performers. The print is an example of the technical precision achieved by carvers and printers working under the direction of the artist, ensuring that the fine lines of the hair and the fluid strokes of the calligraphy were preserved in the final impression. The work provides a glimpse into the visual culture of 18th-century Edo, where the theatre and the print market were closely linked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510565081423,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510565146959,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510565245263,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510565278031,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510565343567,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Segawa-Kikujir-as-Holding-a-Calligraphic-Handscroll_Poster_CompositorV1_1786438594010.jpg?v=1787097939"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-yaozo-2nd-in-pre-performance-celebration-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Yaozō 2nd in Pre-Performance Celebration - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined 1773 woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing kabuki actor Ichikawa Yaozō II in a traditional theatrical celebration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Yaozō II during a pre-performance celebration for the play Soga Monogatari, staged at the Morita Theater in the second month of 1773. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of kabuki actors. His work is recognised for its refined line work and the ability to capture the specific facial features of performers, moving away from the more generic representations seen in earlier prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition shows the actor in a formal pose, holding a tray with a small bonsai pine, a symbol often associated with longevity and the New Year season. The actor wears a patterned kimono with geometric and floral motifs, rendered with a controlled palette of soft greens, ochres, and muted pinks. The background features architectural elements typical of the Edo period, including a lattice window and sliding screens, which provide a sense of place without overwhelming the central figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō’s style is characterised by a slender, elegant depiction of the human form. Unlike the more exaggerated features found in later prints, his portraits maintain a degree of naturalism that allows the viewer to identify the individual actor. The print is a fine example of the benizuri-e technique, which utilised a limited range of colours, typically pink and green, applied to the woodblock print. This restraint in colour application contributes to the overall balance and aesthetic harmony of the piece. The print serves as a record of the theatrical culture of 18th-century Edo, documenting both the fashion of the period and the status of the actors who were the celebrities of their day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510590542159,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510590607695,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510590705999,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510590738767,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510590804303,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Yaoz-2nd-in-Pre-Performance-Celebration_Poster_CompositorV1_1786438713537.jpg?v=1787098305"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-as-tenjiku-tokubee-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō as Tenjiku Tokubee - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting the kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō in the role of Tenjiku Tokubee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō in the role of the legendary adventurer Tenjiku Tokubee. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of actors from the Edo period theatre. His style is characterised by a slim, elegant figure and a focus on the specific facial features of the performer, rather than an idealised representation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe actor is shown in a dynamic pose, holding a staff over his shoulder. He wears a patterned kimono with a distinctive grid design on the lower half and a red, net-like pattern on his sleeves and leggings. The composition is clean, with the figure set against a plain background, allowing the viewer to focus on the costume and the actor's expression. The print uses a limited palette, typical of the period, relying on soft oranges, reds, and ink-black lines to define the form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTenjiku Tokubee was a popular figure in Japanese folklore, often associated with travel to India and magical abilities. In the context of kabuki, the role allowed for dramatic performance and elaborate costumes. Bunchō captures the intensity of the character through the actor's gaze and posture. This work is an example of the refined aesthetic that defined the mid-eighteenth-century print market in Edo. The artist's signature and seal are visible on the right side of the print, alongside the calligraphic text that identifies the actor and the role. The print demonstrates the technical skill involved in the woodblock process, where each colour required a separate carved block to achieve the final image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510595293519,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510595359055,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510595457359,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510595490127,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510595555663,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-as-Tenjiku-Tokubee_Poster_CompositorV1_1786439048827.jpg?v=1787098468"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-utaemon-2nd-as-a-courtesan-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Nakamura Utaemon 2nd as a Courtesan - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the kabuki actor Nakamura Utaemon II in a graceful courtesan role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Utaemon II in the role of a courtesan. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and gained recognition for his yakusha-e, or actor prints, which often captured the specific mannerisms and facial features of performers. This work belongs to the genre of bijin-ga, as the actor is dressed in the elaborate attire of a high-ranking woman of the pleasure quarters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is vertical, typical of the hosoban format favoured for solo actor portraits. The figure stands against a simplified architectural backdrop, which provides a sense of space without distracting from the subject. The actor wears a kimono decorated with crane and pine motifs, symbols of longevity and good fortune. The obi, tied in a prominent style, features a repeating circular pattern that adds visual weight to the centre of the figure. Beside the actor sits a cylindrical lantern, which serves as a prop to ground the scene and provide a sense of evening atmosphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō employs a refined line quality, characteristic of his work in the 1770s. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft oranges, muted greens, and earthy tones that have aged with the paper. The print demonstrates the artist's ability to balance the stylised conventions of the theatre with a degree of individual characterisation. The actor's posture, with a slight turn of the head and a delicate hand gesture, suggests the performative nature of the role. This print offers a view into the aesthetic preferences of the Edo period, where the boundaries between gender and performance were fluidly navigated through the art of the woodblock print.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510761525583,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510761591119,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510761689423,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510761722191,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510761787727,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Utaemon-2nd-as-a-Courtesan_Poster_CompositorV1_1786439288031.jpg?v=1787099013"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-monnosuke-2nd-as-tsunewakamaru-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Monnosuke 2nd as Tsunewakamaru - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting kabuki actor Ichikawa Monnosuke II in his 1775 role as Tsunewakamaru.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures the actor Ichikawa Monnosuke II in the role of Tsunewakamaru. The performance took place at the Nakamura Theater in Edo during the second month of 1775, as part of the play Iro Moyō Aoyagi Soga. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on depicting kabuki actors with a degree of psychological realism that departed from the more stylised conventions of his contemporaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor positioned beside a pine tree, a common motif in kabuki staging to denote outdoor settings or specific narrative contexts. The actor wears a patterned kimono adorned with floral motifs, rendered with the precise line work characteristic of the period. His posture and facial expression convey the dramatic tension typical of a stage performance. The background includes a shoji screen, providing a sense of architectural space while maintaining the flat, graphic quality inherent to the ukiyo-e medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often utilised a narrow, vertical format known as hosoban, which was well-suited for single-figure actor portraits. His ability to balance the decorative elements of the costume with the expressive qualities of the actor's face made his work highly regarded among collectors of the time. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft earth tones and muted greens, which allows the viewer to focus on the character's presence. This print offers a glimpse into the visual culture of the Edo period, where the theatre served as a primary source of entertainment and fashion. The work remains a fine example of the technical skill involved in mid-eighteenth-century Japanese printmaking, where the collaboration between artist, carver, and printer produced images of great clarity and aesthetic control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510769619279,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510769684815,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510769783119,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510769815887,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510769881423,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Monnosuke-2nd-as-Tsunewakamaru_Poster_CompositorV1_1786439527524.jpg?v=1787099136"},{"product_id":"actors-otani-hiroji-iii-and-sakata-sajuro-as-wrestlers-with-a-boy-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actors Ōtani Hiroji III and Sakata Sajūrō as Wrestlers with a Boy - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting kabuki actors in a dramatic scene from the Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a theatrical moment from the Edo period, specifically within the genre of yakusha-e, or actor prints. The composition features the kabuki actors Ōtani Hiroji III and Sakata Sajūrō, depicted in the roles of wrestlers alongside a young boy. Bunchō was active during the mid-eighteenth century and gained recognition for his refined approach to portraiture, often focusing on the specific mannerisms and facial expressions of performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print employs a vertical format, characteristic of the hosoban style, which allowed for elegant, elongated figures. The actors are shown in a tense, dramatic interaction, their postures suggesting a narrative scene from a play. The use of line is precise and controlled, defining the folds of their patterned garments and the sharp contours of their faces. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted earth tones, soft greens, and subtle reds to create a balanced visual experience. The background remains minimal, directing the viewer's attention to the physical engagement between the figures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, such as Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that moved away from the stylised, mask-like faces of earlier ukiyo-e artists. Instead, he sought to capture the individual likenesses of the actors, a practice that became highly popular among theatre enthusiasts in Edo. This print provides a glimpse into the aesthetic values of the time, where the intersection of popular entertainment and visual art created a distinct cultural record. The inclusion of the boy adds a layer of domestic or narrative complexity to the scene, grounding the theatrical performance in a more human context. As a fine art print, this piece offers a clear example of the technical skill involved in traditional Japanese woodblock printing, from the initial carving of the blocks to the careful application of pigment on paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510775189839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510775255375,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510775353679,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510775386447,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510775451983,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actors-tani-Hiroji-III-and-Sakata-Saj-r-as-Wrestlers-with-a-Boy_Poster_CompositorV1_1786439767845.jpg?v=1787099438"},{"product_id":"actor-segawa-kikunojo-in-the-shakkyo-dance-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Segawa Kikunojō in the Shakkyō Dance - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō capturing the kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojō II in a traditional Shakkyō dance performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojō II performing the Shakkyō (Stone Bridge) dance. The Shakkyō dance is a classic repertoire piece involving the mythical lion-dog, or shishi, which is often associated with peonies. In this composition, the actor wears a costume adorned with floral motifs, reflecting the thematic connection between the dancer and the blossoms surrounding him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was active during the mid-eighteenth century and gained recognition for his yakusha-e, or actor prints. His style is characterised by a slender, elegant depiction of figures, often capturing a sense of movement or specific theatrical gestures. The print employs a muted palette, typical of the period, with soft yellows, greens, and subtle ink tones. The inclusion of butterflies and peonies provides a decorative backdrop that frames the actor, creating a balanced visual arrangement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a practitioner of the Ukiyo-e school, Bunchō contributed to the documentation of the Edo period theatrical world. His work provides insight into the costumes, performance styles, and aesthetic preferences of the time. The print demonstrates the technical skill involved in multi-block printing, where each colour is applied through a separate carved woodblock. The lines remain precise, defining the folds of the kimono and the delicate features of the actor. This piece serves as a record of a specific performance, capturing the ephemeral nature of the kabuki stage through the medium of paper and pigment. The composition avoids excessive clutter, allowing the figure of the actor to remain the primary focus while the surrounding elements provide context to the dance narrative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510934704463,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510934769999,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510934868303,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510934901071,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510934966607,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Segawa-Kikunoj-in-the-Shakky-Dance_Poster_CompositorV1_1786440493128.jpg?v=1787100027"},{"product_id":"actors-sanogawa-ichimatsu-and-bando-sanpachi-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actors Sanogawa Ichimatsu and Bandō Sanpachi - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the theatrical intensity of kabuki actors Sanogawa Ichimatsu and Bandō Sanpachi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts two kabuki actors, Sanogawa Ichimatsu and Bandō Sanpachi, in a dramatic pose. Bunchō was a significant figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. His work is noted for its focus on the individual characteristics of performers, moving away from the more generalised facial features seen in earlier ukiyo-e prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a vertical format, typical of the hosoban size used for single-sheet actor portraits. The standing figure, Sanogawa Ichimatsu, holds a branch above his head, his posture suggesting a moment of tension or performance. Below him, Bandō Sanpachi is positioned in a seated, slightly reclined posture. The interaction between the two figures is defined by their contrasting stances and the careful arrangement of their patterned robes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colour palette is restrained, relying on soft greens, muted oranges, and earthy tones. These colours are applied with a precision that defines the folds of the garments and the specific patterns of the fabric. The line work is clean and deliberate, capturing the expressive facial features and the specific hairstyles associated with the roles these actors played.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, such as Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that captured the fleeting nature of the theatre. This print reflects the aesthetic values of the period, where the celebrity of kabuki actors was a central theme in popular art. The absence of a complex background allows the viewer to focus entirely on the theatricality of the subjects. The print serves as a record of the costume, style, and performance techniques prevalent in the kabuki theatre of the late 18th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510940471631,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510940537167,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510940635471,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510940668239,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510940733775,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actors-Sanogawa-Ichimatsu-and-Band-Sanpachi_Poster_CompositorV1_1786440726731.jpg?v=1787100147"},{"product_id":"bird-on-an-eggplant-branch-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Bird on an Eggplant Branch - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delicate woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting a small bird resting on a thorny eggplant branch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a quiet moment of observation within the kachō-ga tradition, which focuses on the depiction of birds and flowers. The composition features a small bird perched upon a slender, thorny branch of an eggplant plant. The artist employs a delicate line quality to define the structure of the leaves and the soft plumage of the bird, while the eggplant fruits are rendered with subtle colour gradients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō, active during the mid-Edo period, is often associated with his portraits of kabuki actors, yet his work in the kachō-ga genre demonstrates a similar precision and economy of form. The print utilises a restrained palette, allowing the natural forms to occupy the negative space of the paper. The inclusion of the artist's red seals provides a visual balance to the organic curves of the plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this work, the viewer observes the interplay between the sharp, protective thorns of the eggplant and the gentle posture of the bird. The background remains largely unadorned, a common technique in Japanese printmaking to direct focus toward the subject matter. The print reflects the period's appreciation for the seasonal cycles of nature and the aesthetic value found in everyday botanical subjects. By isolating the plant and the bird, Bunchō invites a meditative engagement with the subject, free from the clutter of a complex environment. The work remains a fine example of the technical skill involved in eighteenth-century woodblock production, where the alignment of colour blocks and the pressure of the printing process were essential to achieving the final result.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510947811663,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510947877199,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510947975503,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58510948008271,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58510948073807,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Bird-on-an-Eggplant-Branch_Poster_CompositorV1_1786441084810.jpg?v=1787100692"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-as-a-samurai-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō as a Samurai - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the dramatic intensity of kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō in a traditional samurai role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō in a dramatic role. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and gained recognition for his yakusha-e, or actor prints. These works captured the specific mannerisms and stage presence of performers within the floating world of the theatre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a vertical format, common in the hosoban style of the era. The actor is shown in a dynamic pose, holding a child while brandishing a sword. His expression is intense, featuring the exaggerated makeup known as kumadori, which defines the character's temperament. The background includes a screen decorated with bamboo, providing a sense of interior space without overwhelming the subject. The use of colour is restrained, relying on soft pinks, muted purples, and earthy greens to balance the bold black ink of the actor's robes and the calligraphic elements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, yet his individual style remains distinct through his focus on the psychological state of the actor. Unlike the more idealised portrayals found in other schools, his work leans towards a sharper, more observant realism. The print serves as a record of a specific performance, preserving the fleeting nature of the kabuki stage. The inclusion of the artist's signature and seal in the lower right corner confirms the authenticity of the impression. This piece offers a glimpse into the aesthetic values of eighteenth-century Japan, where the theatre functioned as a primary source of entertainment and cultural discourse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511023112527,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511023178063,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511023276367,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511023309135,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511023374671,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-as-a-Samurai_Poster_CompositorV1_1786441348978.jpg?v=1787100809"},{"product_id":"fan-print-actor-in-role-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Fan Print (Actor in Role) - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting a kabuki actor within a fan-shaped frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a kabuki actor in a dramatic pose, framed within the distinct shape of a folding fan. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and is recognised for his contributions to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on the depiction of kabuki performers. His work often features elongated figures and refined, expressive line work that captures the intensity of the stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition utilises the fan format to isolate the subject against a neutral background, drawing attention to the actor's facial expression and the pattern of his kimono. The garment is decorated with a motif of paper cranes, a detail that adds visual interest without overwhelming the figure. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft tones that complement the paper texture typical of eighteenth-century Japanese prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was a contemporary of Katsukawa Shunshō, and together they produced the influential series 'Ehon Butai Ōgi' (Picture Book of Stage Fan Prints). This specific print reflects the aesthetic priorities of that project, where the fan shape serves as a creative boundary for the portrait. The print demonstrates the technical precision of the period, with clean outlines and a balanced distribution of colour. It provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of Edo, where actors were celebrated figures and their likenesses were highly sought after by the public. The print remains a clear example of the stylistic conventions found in Japanese printmaking during this era, prioritising elegance and characterisation over realistic portraiture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511028552015,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511028617551,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511028715855,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511028748623,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511028814159,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Fan-Print-Actor-in-Role-_Poster_CompositorV1_1786441564788.jpg?v=1787101017"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-komazo-as-asahina-robei-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Komazō as Asahina Robei - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA 1770 woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō portraying the kabuki actor Ichikawa Komazō in the role of Asahina Robei.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Komazō in the role of Asahina Robei. Produced in 1770, the work belongs to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on the portrayal of actors within the theatre culture of Edo-period Japan. Bunchō was a significant figure in this field, known for his ability to capture the specific features and expressions of performers rather than relying on generic character types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition presents the actor in a standing posture, holding a large mallet over his shoulder. His attire is rendered with muted earth tones, providing a contrast to the structural elements of the background. The architectural setting, featuring a wooden fence and a glimpse of morning glory vines, suggests an outdoor scene typical of kabuki stage design. The artist employs a clean, calligraphic line quality to define the figure, while the colour palette remains restrained, relying on subtle washes of green, brown, and orange to create visual interest without overwhelming the subject.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was active during the mid-eighteenth century and often collaborated with other artists, such as Katsukawa Shunshō, to refine the depiction of actors. This print reflects the aesthetic priorities of the time, where the focus remained on the individual identity of the performer and the dramatic tension of the theatrical moment. The inclusion of calligraphy in the upper right corner provides context regarding the performance and the actor's identity, a common practice in ukiyo-e prints intended for fans of the kabuki theatre. The print demonstrates the technical precision of the woodblock medium, with clear registration of colours and deliberate use of negative space to balance the figure against the background elements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511027437903,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511027503439,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511027601743,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511027634511,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511027700047,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Komaz-as-Asahina-Robei_Poster_CompositorV1_1786441590844.jpg?v=1787101257"},{"product_id":"owl-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Owl - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA striking eighteenth-century Japanese woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, featuring a stylised owl rendered in monochrome red ink.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō presents a stylised depiction of an owl, rendered in a striking monochrome red ink against a pale, neutral paper background. Bunchō, a practitioner of the Ukiyo-e tradition, is often associated with his portraiture of kabuki actors, yet this work demonstrates his ability to apply the same graphic clarity to natural subjects. The composition is deliberately flat, prioritising the decorative arrangement of the owl's plumage over anatomical realism.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artist employs a series of rhythmic, repetitive marks to suggest the texture of feathers, creating a visual pattern that covers the bird's form. The owl is depicted with a bow tied around its neck, a detail that introduces an element of artifice and charm to the subject. The lines are precise and controlled, characteristic of the technical mastery required for Edo-period woodblock printing. The use of a single colour palette focuses the viewer's attention on the graphic quality of the design and the balance between the positive space of the owl and the negative space of the surrounding paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis print reflects the broader interest in nature and animal studies within the Ukiyo-e genre, where artists sought to capture the essence of a subject through simplified forms and bold outlines. The work is signed with the artist's name and includes a seal, which provides a sense of authenticity and provenance. By stripping away the complexities of colour and depth, Bunchō creates a clear, graphic image that remains visually engaging centuries after its production. It is an example of the economy of line and form that defined much of the Japanese printmaking tradition during the eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511036252495,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511036318031,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511036416335,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511036449103,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511036514639,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Owl_Poster_CompositorV1_1786439887197.jpg?v=1787101648"},{"product_id":"red-daruma-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Red Daruma - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA striking woodblock print of the monk Bodhidharma by the Edo-period artist Ippitsusai Bunchō, rendered in a minimalist red palette.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts Bodhidharma, the semi-legendary monk credited with the transmission of Chan Buddhism to China. Known in Japan as Daruma, the figure is rendered here with the characteristic intensity associated with his meditative practice. The artist employs a minimalist approach, using a monochromatic red palette to define the subject against a neutral paper background. The composition focuses on the monk's stern facial features, wide eyes, and heavy brow, which are hallmarks of traditional Daruma iconography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō, an artist active during the mid-Edo period, is recognised for his contributions to the ukiyo-e genre, particularly his portraits of kabuki actors and his work in the hosoban format. This print demonstrates his ability to distil complex religious figures into clear, graphic forms. The lines are precise, capturing the texture of the monk's beard and the folds of his robes with economy. The use of a single colour tone creates a visual unity that directs the viewer's attention to the subject's expression. The inclusion of the artist's signature and seal on the left side confirms the work's provenance within the ukiyo-e tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDaruma figures have long occupied a space in Japanese culture, appearing in various forms from folk toys to fine art. This print offers a refined interpretation of the subject, moving away from the more common, rounded doll representations toward a more humanised, albeit austere, portrait. The work reflects the technical skill of the woodblock carvers and printers of the period, who managed to maintain the clarity of the artist's original brushwork through the relief printing process. It remains a clear example of the aesthetic values prevalent in eighteenth-century Japanese printmaking, where simplicity and directness were highly valued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511057092943,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511057158479,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511057256783,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511057289551,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511057355087,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Red-Daruma_Poster_CompositorV1_1786440273247.jpg?v=1787101964"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-yaozo-as-a-samurai-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Yaozō as a Samurai - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Ichikawa Yaozō in a traditional samurai role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures the actor Ichikawa Yaozō in a dramatic theatrical pose. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and gained recognition for his yakusha-e, or actor prints, which often focused on the specific mannerisms and facial expressions of performers in the kabuki theatre. This work exemplifies the artist's ability to distil the essence of a stage character into a singular, balanced composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subject is depicted in a standing position, wearing a patterned kimono adorned with a repeating geometric motif. A prominent feature of the costume is the textured, fur-like garment draped over the shoulders, which adds a sense of volume and tactile quality to the figure. The actor holds a small object in one hand, while his other hand rests near the hilt of a sword tucked into his obi. The lines are precise and controlled, characteristic of the refined aesthetic found in Bunchō's oeuvre. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft earth tones, muted reds, and subtle greys, which allow the viewer to focus on the actor's posture and the graphic quality of the kimono pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike later, more exaggerated styles of actor prints, this image maintains a sense of poise and restraint. The figure occupies the vertical space of the paper with a clear sense of purpose, reflecting the conventions of the period where the actor's identity and stage persona were presented with clarity. The signature of the artist appears in the lower left corner, accompanied by a seal, providing a direct link to the production of the print during the height of the Ukiyo-e movement. This piece offers a window into the visual culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the theatre served as a primary source of entertainment and fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511082553679,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511082619215,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511082717519,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511082750287,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511082815823,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Yaoz-as-a-Samurai_Poster_CompositorV1_1786442044760.jpg?v=1787102003"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-komazo-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Komazō - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing a dramatic, high-tension encounter between two Kabuki actors on stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts a dramatic scene from the Kabuki theatre, a genre known as yakusha-e. The composition captures a moment of high tension between two figures. The standing actor, identified as Ichikawa Komazō, is poised with a sword raised above his head, his expression fixed in a grimace of determination. Below him, a second figure is grounded, clutching the actor's leg in a defensive or desperate gesture. The artist employs a narrow, vertical format, which was common for prints of this period, allowing for a focused study of the actors' poses and costumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was a significant figure in the development of the actor print. His work is characterised by a departure from the stylised, mask-like faces of earlier artists, moving towards more individualised portraiture. The figures here are rendered with clean, precise lines and a palette of muted earth tones, greens, and soft reds. The background is minimal, suggesting a stage setting through simple, graphic representations of straw bales and foliage. This focus on the physical interaction between the performers reflects the performative nature of the Kabuki stage, where gesture and posture communicated the narrative to the audience. The print demonstrates the technical skill of the Edo-period woodblock process, with clear registration of the colour blocks and a balanced distribution of visual weight across the vertical plane. As a piece of historical documentation, it provides insight into the aesthetic conventions of the 18th-century Japanese theatre, capturing the intensity of a specific dramatic encounter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511060959567,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511061025103,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511061123407,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511061156175,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511061221711,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Komaz-_Poster_CompositorV1_1786441824477.jpg?v=1787102176"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-tomijiro-in-two-roles-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Nakamura Tomijirō in Two Roles - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the kabuki actor Nakamura Tomijirō in a dual-role performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Tomijirō performing two distinct roles within a single composition. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of kabuki actors. His work is recognised for its slender, elegant figures and a refined approach to characterisation that departed from the more exaggerated styles of his contemporaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a vertical format, common in the hosoban style of the period. The figures are positioned within a domestic interior, suggested by the architectural elements of the sliding screen and the bamboo blind overhead. The actor is shown in two different guises, a technique used to demonstrate versatility and stage presence. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft greens, muted reds, and earthy tones, which were characteristic of the early full-colour printing techniques known as nishiki-e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, most notably Katsukawa Shunshō, on projects such as the Ehon Butai Ōgi. His individual prints, however, maintain a distinct clarity. The lines are precise and controlled, defining the folds of the kimono and the subtle expressions on the actor's faces. The print provides a glimpse into the aesthetic values of the Edo period, where the theatre was a primary source of entertainment and fashion. The attention to detail in the textile patterns and the actor's posture reflects the high level of craftsmanship involved in the production of these prints for the urban public. This piece remains a clear example of the technical and artistic standards achieved during the mid-Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511095759183,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511095824719,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511095923023,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511095955791,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511096021327,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Tomijir-in-Two-Roles_Poster_CompositorV1_1786442284565.jpg?v=1787102324"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-benzo-as-danzaburo-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Benzō as Danzaburō - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting kabuki actor Ichikawa Benzō in a dramatic stage pose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Benzō in the role of Danzaburō. Produced during the mid-Edo period, the work belongs to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on the portrayal of popular stage performers. Bunchō was a significant figure in the development of the actor print, known for his ability to capture the specific facial features and mannerisms of his subjects rather than relying on generic character types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor in a dynamic pose, holding a flowering plum branch above his head. His costume consists of a layered kimono with distinct patterns, including a wave-like motif along the sleeves and a floral design on the lower hem. Two swords are tucked into his sash, indicating his status as a samurai character within the narrative of the play. The background is minimal, suggesting a stage setting with a woven fence, which directs the viewer's attention to the actor's expressive posture and the calligraphic lines of his robes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō's technique employs the nishiki-e, or brocade print, method, which allowed for the use of multiple colours in a single image. The palette is restrained, utilising soft oranges, muted greens, and earthy tones that complement the paper's natural hue. The artist's signature and the actor's name are included in the upper right and lower right corners, typical of the conventions found in eighteenth-century Japanese printmaking. This print offers a glimpse into the theatrical culture of Edo, where the fame of kabuki actors was disseminated through such accessible and widely circulated imagery. The work remains a clear example of the aesthetic priorities of the period, balancing decorative pattern with the individualised representation of the performer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511098347855,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511098413391,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511098511695,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511098544463,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511098609999,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Benz-as-Danzabur-_Poster_CompositorV1_1786442285223.jpg?v=1787102435"},{"product_id":"actor-otani-hiroji-as-kudo-suketsune-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ōtani Hiroji as Kudō Suketsune - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the dramatic posture of kabuki actor Ōtani Hiroji in the role of Kudō Suketsune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ōtani Hiroji in the role of the historical figure Kudō Suketsune. Bunchō was a significant figure in the development of the yakusha-e, or actor print, genre during the mid-Edo period. His work is noted for its departure from the stylised, uniform faces of earlier artists, moving instead toward a more individualised representation of the performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a narrow vertical format, known as hosoban, which was the standard for single-sheet actor portraits of the era. The actor is captured in a dramatic pose, his body angled to convey the tension of the theatrical performance. The background is simplified, featuring architectural elements that suggest an interior setting without distracting from the central figure. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft earth tones and muted pigments that have aged with the paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with Katsukawa Shunshō, and together they refined the depiction of actors to capture specific facial features and expressions. This print demonstrates the artist's ability to balance the graphic requirements of woodblock printing with the fluid lines of traditional brushwork. The figure's posture, with one arm bent and the other extended, reflects the stylised movements of the kabuki stage. The discarded garment at the base of the composition adds a sense of narrative context, implying a moment of preparation or transition within the play. This piece serves as an example of the technical precision and aesthetic focus that defined the output of the Katsukawa school during the late 18th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511340372303,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511340437839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511340536143,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511340568911,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511340634447,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-tani-Hiroji-as-Kud-Suketsune_Poster_CompositorV1_1786442765875.jpg?v=1787102968"},{"product_id":"actors-otani-hiroji-and-bando-sanpachi-as-wrestlers-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actors Ōtani Hiroji and Bandō Sanpachi as Wrestlers - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting two kabuki actors performing as sumo wrestlers in the benizuri-e style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts two kabuki actors, Ōtani Hiroji and Bandō Sanpachi, in the roles of sumo wrestlers. The work belongs to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on the portrayal of actors from the Edo period theatre. Bunchō was known for his ability to capture the specific features and expressions of performers, moving away from the more generic facial types common in earlier prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition centres on the physical struggle between the two figures. The artist uses a restricted colour palette, typical of the benizuri-e style, which relies on a limited number of pigments, primarily pink and green, applied to the paper. The lines are precise and calligraphic, defining the musculature and the heavy, stylised forms of the wrestlers. The background remains minimal, allowing the viewer to focus entirely on the dynamic interaction and the theatrical nature of the performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was an active member of the artistic circles in Edo during the late 18th century. His work often appeared in collaborative books and single-sheet prints that documented the popular culture of the time. This print provides a record of how kabuki actors were perceived and presented to the public, blending the reality of the performer with the fictional persona of the character. The inclusion of a sign in the background adds a layer of context, suggesting a specific scene or location within the play. The print demonstrates the technical skill required to produce multi-colour impressions during this period of Japanese printmaking history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511342371151,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511342436687,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511342534991,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511342567759,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511342633295,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actors-tani-Hiroji-and-Band-Sanpachi-as-Wrestlers_Poster_CompositorV1_1786442644889.jpg?v=1787103085"},{"product_id":"actor-sanokawa-ichimatsu-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Sanokawa Ichimatsu - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting the kabuki actor Sanokawa Ichimatsu within a fan-shaped composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis print depicts the kabuki actor Sanokawa Ichimatsu, a figure of considerable fame in eighteenth-century Edo. The work originates from the series Yakusha Butai Ogi, or 'Actors on Stage Fans', a collection of designs intended for mounting onto folding fans. Ippitsusai Bunchō, a master of the yakusha-e genre, captures the actor in a moment of dramatic stillness. The composition is constrained by the fan shape, forcing the figure into a dynamic, angular posture that reflects the stylised nature of kabuki performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō employs a refined, calligraphic line to define the actor's features and costume. The focus remains on the expressive quality of the face and the precise handling of the actor's posture. By stripping away extraneous detail, the artist directs the viewer toward the specific characterisation of Ichimatsu. The print demonstrates the technical precision of the period, where the woodblock medium allowed for clean, sharp contours that define the subject against the negative space of the fan. The inclusion of the actor's name and the artist's signature within the composition provides a clear identification of the subject, typical of the promotional nature of such prints in the Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a piece of Ukiyo-e, this work provides insight into the intersection of theatre and visual culture in Japan. The fan format was a popular medium for disseminating images of popular performers, allowing fans to carry portraits of their idols. The simplicity of the black-and-white ink application emphasises the graphic strength of the design, ensuring that the actor's presence remains clear even when the fan is in use. This print is a representative example of Bunchō's ability to balance the requirements of commercial design with the artistic demands of portraiture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511350661455,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511350726991,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511350825295,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511350858063,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511350923599,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Sanokawa-Ichimatsu_Poster_CompositorV1_1786442908145.jpg?v=1787103183"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-komazo-standing-beside-a-shinto-shrine-with-chrysanthemums-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Komazō Standing Beside a Shinto Shrine with Chrysanthemums - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, featuring the kabuki actor Ichikawa Komazō in a traditional theatrical pose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Komazō in a characteristic pose. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and is recognised for his contributions to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on portraits of kabuki actors. The print captures the actor with a stylised, elongated posture, a hallmark of the artist's approach to human form. He holds a thin stem, perhaps a floral accessory, while standing near elements that suggest a Shinto setting, including a shrine structure and decorative chrysanthemums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a muted colour palette, typical of the nishiki-e prints of the era. The actor wears a kimono adorned with a repeating circular pattern, which contrasts with the geometric grid of the obi. The lines are precise and calligraphic, defining the actor's features and the folds of his garments with economy. The inclusion of the chrysanthemums adds a seasonal element to the scene, often used in kabuki to signal specific times of year or thematic associations within a play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, such as Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that captured the specific likenesses of performers. This print reflects the aesthetic priorities of the time, where the focus remained on the actor's stage persona rather than a realistic portrait. The flat composition and the use of negative space allow the figure to occupy the frame with clarity. The print serves as a record of the theatrical culture of 18th-century Edo, documenting the appearance and style of popular performers who were the celebrities of their day. The work demonstrates the technical skill involved in multi-block printing, where each colour is applied via a separate woodblock to achieve the final image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511360819535,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511360885071,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511360983375,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511361016143,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511361081679,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Komaz-Standing-Beside-a-Shinto-Shrine-with-Chrysanthemums_Poster_CompositorV1_1786443028393.jpg?v=1787103474"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-nakazo-drawing-a-sword-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Nakamura Nakazō Drawing a Sword - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the dramatic intensity of kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in a moment of action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in a dramatic pose. The artist, active during the mid-Edo period, is known for his contributions to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on portraits of kabuki performers. Bunchō captures the tension of the scene through the actor's posture and the sharp, angular lines of the sword being drawn from its scabbard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is typical of the period, utilising a vertical format that emphasises the height and stance of the figure. The background features a stylised pine tree and a small fire, elements that provide context to the narrative without distracting from the central subject. The actor wears a patterned kimono, with the folds of the fabric rendered through clean, deliberate lines. The contrast between the dark background and the lighter figure creates a clear visual hierarchy, directing the viewer's attention to the actor's expression and the action of the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was a contemporary of Katsukawa Shunshō, and together they produced the influential Ehon Butai Ōgi, a collection of actor prints. His work is characterised by a focus on the individual features of the actors, moving away from the more generic representations seen in earlier ukiyo-e. This print reflects the technical precision of the woodblock medium, where each line and area of shading requires careful carving and registration. The print provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of 18th-century Japan, where actors were celebrated figures and their performances were documented through these mass-produced images. The simplicity of the composition allows the viewer to focus on the physical intensity of the kabuki performance, capturing a fleeting moment of stage action.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58528315113807,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58528315179343,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58528315277647,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58528315310415,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58528315375951,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Nakaz-Drawing-a-Sword_Poster_CompositorV1_1786440127128.jpg?v=1787104323"},{"product_id":"actors-ichikawa-yaozo-and-ichikawa-benzo-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actors Ichikawa Yaozō and Ichikawa Benzo - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting two Kabuki actors in a dramatic, stylised pose from the mid-Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a dramatic moment from the Kabuki theatre, a genre known as yakusha-e. The composition features two actors, Ichikawa Yaozō and Ichikawa Benzo, posed in a dynamic interaction. Bunchō, active during the mid-Edo period, is recognised for his ability to convey the specific personalities of performers rather than relying on generic facial types. His work often features slender figures and a refined use of colour, which distinguishes his style from the more robust depictions found in other schools of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print employs a limited palette, typical of the benizuri-e technique, where pink and green pigments are applied to a base of black ink. The figures are arranged to suggest movement, with one actor standing and the other crouching, creating a sense of tension. The inclusion of an umbrella as a prop adds a layer of narrative detail, suggesting a specific scene or play. The lines are precise and calligraphic, defining the contours of the costumes and the expressions of the actors with economy and grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIppitsusai Bunchō was a significant figure in the development of the actor print, often collaborating with other artists such as Katsukawa Shunshō. His prints provide a window into the aesthetic preferences of the urban population in Edo, who were avid consumers of theatre culture. The focus here remains on the theatricality of the pose and the stylised representation of the actors, reflecting the conventions of the period. This piece serves as an example of the technical skill involved in multi-block printing, where each colour required a separate carved block to achieve the final layered effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/wind-blown-grass-across-the-moon-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWind Blown Grass Across the Moon - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/evening-glow-at-nihonbashi-keisai-eisen\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eEvening Glow at Nihonbashi - Keisai Eisen — Keisai Eisen\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511413346639,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511413412175,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511413510479,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58511413543247,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58511413608783,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actors-Ichikawa-Yaoz-and-Ichikawa-Benzo_Poster_CompositorV1_1786443245999.jpg?v=1787104536"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-matsue-as-a-female-dancer-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Nakamura Matsue as a Female Dancer - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the graceful movement of kabuki actor Nakamura Matsue in a traditional dance role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Matsue in the role of a female dancer. Bunchō was a significant figure in the development of the yakusha-e (actor print) genre during the mid-Edo period. His work is recognised for its refined, slender figures and a departure from the more robust, exaggerated styles of his contemporaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition utilises the hosoban format, a narrow vertical sheet common for solo actor portraits. The figure is positioned against a stylised backdrop featuring a maple tree, which provides a seasonal context for the performance. The actor wears a kimono with a subtle pattern, and the pose suggests the fluid movement of a dance. The lines are delicate, reflecting the artist's focus on the grace of the performer rather than a realistic depiction of the individual. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft greens and earth tones, which is characteristic of the benizuri-e (rose-printed) technique used during this era. This method involved the use of two or three colour blocks, typically pink and green, applied to a monochrome base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, most notably Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that captured the specific mannerisms and facial features of popular actors. This print provides a view into the aesthetic priorities of the eighteenth-century Japanese theatre world. The focus remains on the stylised elegance of the costume and the controlled posture of the dancer. By stripping away unnecessary detail, the artist directs the viewer to the essential lines of the performer's silhouette. This print is a representative example of the technical and stylistic conventions that defined the early period of actor portraiture in Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578060968271,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578061033807,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578061132111,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578061164879,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578061230415,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Matsue-as-a-Female-Dancer_Poster_CompositorV1_1787826850303.jpg?v=1787827144"},{"product_id":"azuma-tozo-actor-portrait-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Azuma Tozō (Actor Portrait) - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Azuma Tozō within a fan-shaped border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Azuma Tozō. The composition is framed within the outline of a folding fan, a common format for ukiyo-e prints of the Edo period. Bunchō, a master of the yakusha-e (actor print) genre, captures the subject with a focus on refined line work and minimal shading. The actor is shown in a three-quarter profile, wearing a kimono decorated with a hexagonal pattern and maple leaf motifs. Two swords are tucked into the sash, indicating the character's status as a samurai.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe artist employs a restrained aesthetic, relying on the clarity of the ink lines to define the facial features and the folds of the costume. The lack of background detail directs the viewer's attention to the actor's expression and posture. This print belongs to a period when the depiction of kabuki actors reached a high level of stylistic sophistication. Bunchō was known for his ability to convey the specific personality of an actor rather than a generic mask, a trait that distinguishes his work from many of his contemporaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a museum-grade fine art print, this reproduction preserves the delicate balance of the original woodblock design. The paper tone reflects the aged quality of the historical print, while the black ink lines remain sharp and clear. This piece offers a glimpse into the theatrical culture of 18th-century Japan, where the popularity of kabuki theatre drove the production of these collectible portraits. The fan-shaped border adds a decorative element to the composition, typical of the playful and inventive nature of ukiyo-e design. It is a representative example of the yakusha-e tradition, demonstrating the technical skill involved in carving and printing such precise, flowing lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578088788303,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578088853839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578088952143,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578088984911,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578089050447,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Azuma-Toz-Actor-Portrait-_Poster_CompositorV1_1787826492547.jpg?v=1787827584"},{"product_id":"actor-in-a-samurai-role-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor in a Samurai Role - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting a kabuki actor in a samurai role with traditional costume and theatrical poise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a kabuki actor in a dramatic pose, characteristic of the yakusha-e genre. Bunchō was active during the mid-Edo period and is recognised for his refined approach to depicting performers. The subject is shown in a stylised samurai costume, complete with two swords tucked into his sash, indicating his status within the theatrical narrative. His expression is one of intense focus, a common feature in prints intended to document specific performances or famous roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition utilises a vertical format, often referred to as hosoban, which was standard for actor prints of this era. The background features a screen decorated with plum blossoms, providing a subtle contrast to the bold, geometric patterns of the actor's robes. The colour palette is restrained, relying on earthy tones, muted reds, and soft greens, which were achieved through the precise application of woodblocks. The lines are clean and deliberate, defining the contours of the figure and the folds of the heavy fabric.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, such as Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that moved away from the idealised beauty of earlier ukiyo-e. Instead, these prints focused on the individual characteristics of the actors, capturing their unique facial features and physical presence on stage. This print offers a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the kabuki theatre was a central form of public entertainment. The inclusion of fallen maple leaves on the floor suggests a seasonal setting, adding a layer of narrative context to the scene. This work remains a representative example of the technical skill involved in the production of Japanese woodblock prints during the height of the ukiyo-e tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578145542479,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578145608015,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578145706319,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578145739087,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578145804623,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-in-a-Samurai-Role_Poster_CompositorV1_1787827692921.jpg?v=1787828079"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-komazo-as-a-samurai-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Komazō as a Samurai - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the kabuki actor Ichikawa Komazō in a poised samurai role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Komazō in a dramatic samurai role. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of actors within the floating world of Edo-period theatre. His work is recognised for its refined, slender figures and a departure from the more exaggerated features found in earlier prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor standing before a painted screen, a common device in theatrical prints to suggest the stage environment. The actor wears a kimono decorated with a geometric grid pattern, which provides a structured contrast to the organic, flowing lines of the pine tree depicted on the screen behind him. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted greens, soft greys, and earthy tones, which allows the viewer to focus on the actor's posture and facial expression. The print captures a moment of tension, with the actor's hand resting on the hilt of his sword, a gesture that conveys the character's readiness for conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, most notably Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that captured the individual likenesses of performers. This print reflects the aesthetic values of the mid-eighteenth century, where the focus shifted towards a more realistic representation of the actor's features rather than generic archetypes. The use of fine lines and delicate shading demonstrates the technical skill involved in the production of nishiki-e, or brocade prints. The work remains a clear example of the intersection between popular theatre and the visual arts in Japan, providing a window into the cultural life of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578186273103,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578186338639,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578186436943,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578186469711,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578186535247,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Komaz-as-a-Samurai_Poster_CompositorV1_1787827811540.jpg?v=1787828449"},{"product_id":"actor-otani-hiroji-iii-wielding-a-lantern-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Ōtani Hiroji III Wielding a Lantern - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting the kabuki actor Ōtani Hiroji III in a dynamic, expressive pose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures the kabuki actor Ōtani Hiroji III in a dramatic pose. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on depicting actors from the popular theatre of the Edo period. His work is recognised for its refined line quality and the psychological depth he brought to his subjects, moving away from the more stylised, generic portrayals common in earlier prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor holding a lantern aloft, his body angled to suggest movement and tension. The figure is dressed in a kimono adorned with crane motifs, a detail that adds visual interest to the garment. Behind him, a stylised floral arrangement provides a sense of setting without overwhelming the primary subject. The print employs a limited, controlled palette, typical of the period, which allows the focus to remain on the actor's expressive facial features and posture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, such as Katsukawa Shunshō, to produce works that captured the specific mannerisms and individual characteristics of famous performers. This print is an example of the hosoban format, a narrow vertical size frequently used for single-figure actor portraits. The clean lines and balanced composition reflect the aesthetic standards of the mid-Edo period, where the art of the printmaker was closely tied to the celebrity culture of the kabuki stage. By isolating the actor against a neutral background, the artist directs the viewer's attention to the theatricality of the moment, capturing a fleeting gesture that would have been familiar to contemporary audiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578188304719,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578188370255,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578188468559,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578188501327,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578188566863,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-tani-Hiroji-III-Wielding-a-Lantern_Poster_CompositorV1_1787828020032.jpg?v=1787828453"},{"product_id":"actor-matsumoto-koshiro-ii-as-asagao-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Matsumoto Koshirō II as Asagao - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined 18th-century woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the kabuki actor Matsumoto Koshirō II in a dramatic stage role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Matsumoto Koshirō II in the role of Asagao. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of actors during the Edo period. His work is recognised for its refined, slender figures and a departure from the more exaggerated features found in earlier prints of the era. The composition captures the actor in a moment of dramatic tension, with his posture and expression conveying the specific characterisation required for the stage performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print utilises the nishiki-e technique, or brocade print, which allowed for the application of multiple colours to create a nuanced palette. The actor wears a kimono decorated with a subtle pattern, while the background features a shoji screen, providing a sense of interior space. The inclusion of a small bird perched on a stand adds a layer of narrative detail, common in theatrical prints of the time. Bunchō often collaborated with other artists, yet his individual style remains distinct through his precise line work and the elegant, elongated proportions of his subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a piece of historical documentation, this print offers insight into the aesthetics of 18th-century Japanese theatre. The actor Matsumoto Koshirō II was a well-known figure, and such prints served as souvenirs for theatre-goers, allowing them to keep a record of their favourite performers. The print is characterised by its balanced composition and the use of soft, muted tones, which were typical of the period's printing technology. The artist's signature and seal are visible in the lower left, confirming the provenance of this work within the broader context of Ukiyo-e production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578258297167,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578258362703,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578258461007,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578258493775,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578258559311,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Matsumoto-Koshir-II-as-Asagao_Poster_CompositorV1_1787828858463.jpg?v=1787829031"},{"product_id":"actors-nakamura-matsue-and-ichikawa-yaozo-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actors Nakamura Matsue and Ichikawa Yaozō - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting kabuki actors Nakamura Matsue and Ichikawa Yaozō in a dramatic stage scene.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a moment from the kabuki theatre, featuring the actors Nakamura Matsue and Ichikawa Yaozō. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the depiction of popular stage performers. His work is recognised for its refined line work and the psychological depth he brought to his subjects, moving away from the more stylised, mask-like faces seen in earlier prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is structured around the interaction between the two figures. The standing actor, Ichikawa Yaozō, is positioned with a sense of dramatic tension, his posture suggesting a narrative pause in the performance. Beside him, Nakamura Matsue is seated, looking upward. The background includes a folding screen decorated with bamboo, which provides a sense of spatial depth while maintaining the two-dimensional aesthetic characteristic of the period. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft ochres, muted greens, and the natural tone of the paper to create a harmonious visual balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, yet his individual style remains distinct through his focus on the specific features and expressions of the actors. This print serves as a record of the ephemeral nature of the theatre, preserving the likenesses of performers who were the celebrities of their day. The delicate lines used to define the facial features and the folds of the kimono demonstrate the technical skill required in the carving and printing process. By focusing on the interplay between the two characters, the artist invites the viewer to consider the narrative context of the scene, even without explicit knowledge of the specific play being performed. The print is a fine example of the mid-Edo period aesthetic, where the focus shifted toward a more naturalistic portrayal of human subjects within the traditional framework of the woodblock medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578280251727,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578280317263,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578280415567,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578280448335,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578280513871,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actors-Nakamura-Matsue-and-Ichikawa-Yaoz-_Poster_CompositorV1_1787829058000.jpg?v=1787829268"},{"product_id":"beauties-at-the-seashore-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Beauties at the Seashore - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delicate hanging scroll by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting three women in traditional attire by the water, rendered in ink and colour on silk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIppitsusai Bunchō was a significant figure in the Ukiyo-e tradition, known primarily for his depictions of kabuki actors and elegant women. This hanging scroll, executed in ink and colour on silk, captures a quiet moment by the water. The composition features three women in traditional attire, their forms rendered with the slender, elongated proportions characteristic of Bunchō’s style during the mid-Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne figure stands in the foreground, holding a circular fan, while two others sit upon a raised platform near the shore. The background is defined by a rhythmic treatment of the water, indicated by fine, repetitive lines that suggest gentle movement. A weeping willow tree frames the right side of the scene, providing a vertical balance to the horizontal expanse of the river or bay. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft earth tones, muted ochres, and subtle ink washes to create a sense of atmospheric calm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō’s approach to the human figure emphasises grace and poise. The drapery of the kimonos is handled with precision, showing the influence of his training in the Kano school before he turned his attention to the floating world of Ukiyo-e. The inclusion of a small boat in the distance adds a narrative element, suggesting a scene of leisure or travel. This work demonstrates the artist's ability to balance negative space with delicate detail, a hallmark of his approach to silk painting. By focusing on the interaction between the figures and their environment, the artist invites the viewer to observe the subtle gestures and quiet social dynamics of the period. The work remains a clear example of the aesthetic values prevalent in eighteenth-century Japanese painting, where the depiction of beauty is inextricably linked to the natural world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578327994703,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578328060239,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578328158543,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578328191311,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578328256847,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Beauties-at-the-Seashore_Poster_CompositorV1_1787829307602.jpg?v=1787829665"},{"product_id":"onoe-kikugoro-i-as-izumi-no-saburo-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Onoe Kikugorō I as Izumi no Saburō - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting the kabuki actor Onoe Kikugorō I in a traditional theatrical role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Onoe Kikugorō I in the role of Izumi no Saburō. The work originates from the mid-Edo period, a time when the theatre culture of Edo flourished alongside the production of actor prints, known as yakusha-e. Bunchō, active during the latter half of the eighteenth century, gained recognition for his slim, elegant figures and his ability to capture the specific features of actors on stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition presents the actor in a formal, kneeling posture. He wears a patterned kimono with wide shoulders, typical of the period's theatrical costume design. The actor holds a small hand drum, while two swords are tucked into his sash, indicating his status as a samurai character. The background features a stylised depiction of plum blossoms against a lattice screen, providing a seasonal context for the performance. The muted colour palette relies on earthy tones, with accents of red and green, which were common in the printing techniques of the era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was a contemporary of Katsukawa Shunshō, and together they moved away from the more generic actor depictions of earlier artists. Instead, they focused on individualised facial expressions and realistic portrayals of performers. This print exemplifies the refined aesthetic of the period, where the focus remains on the actor's presence and the specific iconography of the play. The clean lines and balanced arrangement of the figure against the decorative background demonstrate the technical precision of the woodblock medium. As a piece of historical documentation, it provides insight into the visual culture of the kabuki theatre, capturing a fleeting moment of performance through the medium of printmaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578325602639,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578325668175,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578325766479,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578325799247,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578325864783,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Onoe-Kikugor-I-as-Izumi-no-Sabur-_Poster_CompositorV1_1787829194125.jpg?v=1787829745"},{"product_id":"actor-sakata-hongoro-ii-as-a-wrestler-in-a-play-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Actor Sakata Hongoro II as a Wrestler in a Play - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, capturing the kabuki actor Sakata Hongoro II in a wrestler's role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Sakata Hongoro II in the role of a wrestler. Bunchō was an active member of the ukiyo-e school during the mid-Edo period, known for his yakusha-e, or actor prints. His work often captures the specific mannerisms and physical presence of performers on the stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition focuses on the actor in a standing posture, his body turned slightly to reveal the costume details. The artist employs a restrained palette, typical of the benizuri-e style, which uses a limited number of colour blocks to define the figure against a neutral background. The actor wears a patterned garment adorned with maple leaf motifs, while his posture suggests the exaggerated stance of a wrestler. The lines are precise, defining the musculature and the facial expression with economy and clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with Katsukawa Shunshō, and their combined efforts shifted the depiction of kabuki actors toward more realistic portrayals. This print reflects that transition, moving away from the stylised, generic faces of earlier periods to capture the individual features of the performer. The print serves as a record of the theatrical culture of 18th-century Edo, documenting both the costume design and the performance style of the era. The paper retains its original texture, and the ink application shows the characteristic layering of the woodblock process. This piece is an example of the technical skill involved in producing multi-block prints during the development of the ukiyo-e tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578367414607,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578367480143,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578367578447,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578367611215,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578367676751,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Sakata-Hongoro-II-as-a-Wrestler-in-a-Play_Poster_CompositorV1_1787829852763.jpg?v=1787830141"},{"product_id":"segawa-kikunojo-ii-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Segawa Kikunojo II - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojo II standing beneath a willow tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojo II. The artist was active during the mid-Edo period and gained recognition for his yakusha-e, or actor prints. His work is noted for a departure from the more stylised, exaggerated features seen in earlier prints, favouring a refined and slender aesthetic that captures the specific likeness of the performer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the actor is shown in a moment of quietude, sheltered by a large, ochre-toned umbrella. The figure stands beneath the sweeping branches of a willow tree, which provides a vertical frame for the subject. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted greys, soft blues, and the warm yellow of the umbrella to create a balanced visual experience. The lines are delicate and precise, characteristic of the artist's approach to capturing the grace of the kabuki stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, yet his individual prints remain distinct for their focus on the psychological presence of the actor. The print demonstrates the technical skill involved in the ukiyo-e process, where multiple woodblocks were carved to apply separate colours to the paper. The composition is balanced, with the actor's posture echoing the gentle curve of the willow branches. This piece offers a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where actors were celebrated as fashion icons and cultural figures. The print serves as a record of a specific performance style, preserved through the medium of the woodblock print.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578378457423,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578378522959,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578378621263,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578378654031,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578378719567,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Segawa-Kikunojo-II_Poster_CompositorV1_1787829782660.jpg?v=1787830255"},{"product_id":"an-actor-in-the-fox-dance-from-the-drama-the-thousand-cherry-trees-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"An Actor in the Fox Dance from the Drama, The Thousand Cherry Trees - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting a kabuki actor in the role of a fox spirit from the classic drama, The Thousand Cherry Trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a specific moment from the kabuki play Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura, or The Thousand Cherry Trees. The figure depicted is an actor performing the role of a fox spirit, a character central to the narrative of the play. The actor wears a fox mask atop their head, a visual shorthand for the supernatural identity of the character. The composition is typical of the hosoban format, a narrow vertical sheet favoured by artists of the period for depicting individual actors in character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of kabuki actors. His work is noted for its refined line work and a restrained approach to colour. In this print, the actor stands beneath a cherry tree, with petals falling around them, creating a sense of seasonal atmosphere. The colour palette is muted, relying on soft ochre, muted reds, and subtle greens to define the form and the surrounding environment. The figure is rendered with a focus on the elegance of the costume and the specific posture of the dance, rather than a realistic depiction of the actor's features. This approach allowed the viewer to recognise the performer through their signature style and the specific role they occupied on the stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print reflects the cultural climate of Edo-period Japan, where the theatre was a primary source of entertainment and fashion. Prints such as this functioned as souvenirs or promotional material for the theatre, allowing fans to collect images of their favourite performers. The technical execution of the woodblock carving and the application of pigment demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship present in the workshops of the time. The work remains a clear example of the aesthetic priorities of the Ukiyo-e school, prioritising line and decorative balance over depth or perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578411028815,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578411094351,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578411192655,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578411225423,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578411290959,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/An-Actor-in-the-Fox-Dance-from-the-Drama-The-Thousand-Cherry-Trees_Poster_CompositorV1_1787830387063.jpg?v=1787830450"},{"product_id":"handayu-an-actor-in-a-female-role-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"Handayu, An Actor in a Female Role - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Handayu in a graceful onnagata role, capturing the aesthetic of eighteenth-century Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Handayu in an onnagata role, which refers to a male performer specialising in female characters. The composition reflects the aesthetic priorities of the mid-Edo period, where the focus remained on the stylised grace of the performer rather than realistic portraiture. Bunchō, a contemporary of Katsukawa Shunshō, contributed to the development of the yakusha-e genre, which documented the popular theatre culture of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe figure stands in a gentle, S-shaped posture, wearing a kimono with subtle patterns. The artist employs a restrained colour palette, relying on soft ochre, muted red, and charcoal tones to define the space. Behind the actor, a planter containing pine and chrysanthemums sits upon a raised platform, while a paper lantern rests on the floor in the foreground. These elements provide a sense of domestic or theatrical setting without overwhelming the subject. The lines are precise and controlled, characteristic of the refined technique required for high-quality ukiyo-e production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was known for his ability to capture the individual features of actors, moving away from the generic faces seen in earlier prints. This work demonstrates his skill in balancing the decorative requirements of the print medium with the specific identity of the performer. The inclusion of the artist's signature and seal in the lower left corner confirms the authenticity of the piece. As a museum-grade reproduction, this print preserves the delicate balance of the original composition, offering a view into the theatrical traditions of eighteenth-century Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578418827599,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578418893135,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578418991439,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578419024207,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578419089743,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Handayu-An-Actor-in-a-Female-Role_Poster_CompositorV1_1787830407280.jpg?v=1787830637"},{"product_id":"the-actor-ichikawa-uzayemon-ix-in-a-female-role-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Actor Ichikawa Uzayemon IX in a Female Role - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Ichikawa Uzayemon IX in an onnagata role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Ichikawa Uzayemon IX. The artist, active during the mid-Edo period, is known for his contributions to the yakusha-e genre, which focuses on portraits of kabuki performers. In this composition, the actor is captured in an onnagata role, portraying a female character. The figure stands in a graceful pose, partially obscured by a folding fan decorated with a bird motif. The attire is rendered with subtle patterns, reflecting the fashion of the era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō employs a refined line quality, characteristic of his work in the Ehon Butai Ōgi, a collaborative publication that documented various actors of the time. The colour palette remains muted, relying on soft earth tones and pale greens to define the architectural elements and the fabric of the kimono. The composition is balanced, with the actor positioned against a simplified structural backdrop that suggests a stage setting. The print demonstrates the artist's ability to convey character and movement through minimal gestures and precise linework.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a piece of ukiyo-e, this work provides insight into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan. The focus is on the stylised representation of the actor rather than a realistic portrait, adhering to the conventions of the period. The print is an example of the benizuri-e or early nishiki-e style, where a limited range of colours was applied to create a harmonious visual effect. The presence of the actor's name and the artist's signature in the lower right corner confirms the identity of the subject and the creator, allowing for a clear attribution within the history of Japanese printmaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578496651599,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578496717135,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578496815439,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578496848207,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578496913743,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Actor-Ichikawa-Uzayemon-IX-in-a-Female-Role_Poster_CompositorV1_1787830843594.jpg?v=1787831154"},{"product_id":"the-actors-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Actors - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting two Kabuki actors in a moment of theatrical performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a moment of theatrical interaction, typical of the Ukiyo-e genre during the Edo period. Bunchō was active in the mid-eighteenth century and gained recognition for his depictions of Kabuki performers. His work often focused on the specific mannerisms and costumes of actors, providing a visual record of the stagecraft of his time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features two figures positioned within an interior space. The male figure, dressed in traditional samurai attire with a sword at his waist, stands to the left. He holds a flute, suggesting a musical or performative context. Opposite him, a female figure carries a basket, her posture and gesture indicating a narrative exchange. Between them, a screen depicts a mountain scene, which adds a layer of depth to the otherwise sparse background. The lines are clean and precise, characteristic of the woodblock printing techniques used to produce these popular prints for a wide audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō utilised a minimalist approach to shading and texture, relying instead on the clarity of the ink lines to define form and movement. The print reflects the aesthetic values of the period, where the focus remained on the stylised representation of human figures and their social or professional roles. The inclusion of the artist's signature and seal on the left side confirms the work's origin within his studio. This piece offers a glimpse into the cultural life of eighteenth-century Japan, where the theatre served as a primary source of entertainment and fashion. The print is presented here as a high-quality reproduction, maintaining the integrity of the original line work and the balance of the composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578491572559,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578491638095,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578491736399,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578491769167,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578491834703,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Actors_Poster_CompositorV1_1787830707956.jpg?v=1787831212"},{"product_id":"the-actor-sawamura-sojuro-i-in-an-unidentified-female-role-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Actor Sawamura Sojuro I in an Unidentified Female Role - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Sawamura Sojuro I in an onnagata role, rendered in the classic hosoban format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the kabuki actor Sawamura Sojuro I in a female role, a performance tradition known as onnagata. Bunchō was a significant figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. His work is noted for a departure from the exaggerated features seen in earlier prints, moving instead toward a more refined and individualised representation of the actor's features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs the hosoban format, a narrow vertical orientation typical of actor portraits from this era. The figure stands in a graceful posture, with the kimono sleeves draped to suggest movement and volume. The garment is decorated with a repeating floral motif, rendered with subtle line work that balances the overall design. Behind the actor, a flowering branch provides a delicate backdrop, adding a sense of seasonal atmosphere to the scene. The colour palette is restrained, utilising the benizuri-e technique, which typically involves a limited range of colours, often including pink, green, and soft yellow, applied to a monochrome base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō collaborated frequently with Katsukawa Shunshō, and together they refined the aesthetic of the actor portrait. This print captures the specific mannerisms and costume details associated with the kabuki stage of the 1770s. The artist's signature appears in the lower left corner, a standard practice for prints intended for the commercial market in Edo. The print reflects the cultural fascination with the theatre, where actors were celebrated as fashion icons and public figures. The attention to the texture of the fabric and the precise rendering of the hair ornaments demonstrates the technical skill involved in the production of these prints, which were created through the coordinated efforts of the artist, the carver, and the printer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578548719951,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578548785487,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578548883791,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578548916559,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578548982095,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Actor-Sawamura-Sojuro-I-in-an-Unidentified-Female-Role_Poster_CompositorV1_1787831327359.jpg?v=1787831575"},{"product_id":"the-actor-otani-hiroji-iii-armed-with-a-sword-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Actor Otani Hiroji III, Armed with a Sword - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Otani Hiroji III in a dramatic, sword-bearing pose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures the actor Otani Hiroji III in a dramatic pose. The artist was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on depicting performers from the kabuki theatre. Bunchō is recognised for his ability to convey the specific personality and physical presence of actors during the mid-Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor in a tense, athletic stance. He holds a sword, his expression fixed in a look of intense concentration. The artist uses a limited palette, allowing the stark contrast between the actor's skin and the patterned fabric of his costume to draw the eye. Behind the figure, a subtle bamboo motif provides a sense of place without distracting from the central subject. The lines are precise, reflecting the technical skill required for high-quality woodblock printing in the eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō often collaborated with other artists, yet his individual style remains distinct through his focus on the psychological state of his subjects. This print serves as a record of a specific performance, preserving the aesthetic conventions of the kabuki stage. The use of negative space and the balanced arrangement of the figure against the background demonstrate the refined sensibilities of the Ukiyo-e tradition. Collectors of Japanese art value these prints for their historical connection to the theatre and their technical execution. This piece is an example of the artist's contribution to the documentation of popular culture in Edo-era Japan, offering a glimpse into the dramatic arts of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578579784015,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578579849551,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578579947855,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578579980623,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578580046159,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Actor-Otani-Hiroji-III-Armed-with-a-Sword_Poster_CompositorV1_1787831678780.jpg?v=1787831807"},{"product_id":"the-actor-bando-hikosaburo-ii-in-the-role-of-the-oiran-hatsuito-of-yamashiro-ya-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Actor Bando Hikosaburo II in the Role of the Oiran Hatsuito of Yamashiro-ya - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicting the kabuki actor Bando Hikosaburo II as the oiran Hatsuito, showcasing the elegant yakusha-e style of the Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures a specific moment in the kabuki theatre tradition of the Edo period. The subject is the actor Bando Hikosaburo II, depicted in the role of the oiran Hatsuito. Bunchō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the likenesses of popular actors. His work is known for a refined, slender aesthetic that departed from the more robust figures common in earlier prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition places the actor in a kneeling posture, framed by the architectural elements of a brothel or teahouse. The vertical bars behind the figure suggest the restricted environment of the Yoshiwara district, where high-ranking courtesans resided. The actor holds a pipe, a common accessory in such depictions, while the foreground features a smoking set and a lacquer box, grounding the scene in the material culture of the time. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft earth tones and a muted red for the architectural frame, which directs the viewer's attention to the figure's posture and the delicate patterns on the kimono.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō’s approach to portraiture often involved a subtle elongation of the neck and torso, creating a sense of grace. This print demonstrates his ability to convey character through gesture and costume detail rather than exaggerated expression. The inclusion of the cartouche in the upper right provides the necessary identification for the role, a standard practice in theatrical prints of the era. As a piece of historical documentation, this work offers insight into the intersection of fashion, theatre, and urban life in eighteenth-century Japan. The print remains a clear example of the technical precision achieved by ukiyo-e artists during the mid-Edo period, maintaining a balance between the theatricality of the stage and the quiet domesticity of the setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578554290511,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578554356047,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578554454351,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578554487119,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578554552655,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Actor-Bando-Hikosaburo-II-in-the-Role-of-the-Oiran-Hatsuito-of-Yamashiro-ya_Poster_CompositorV1_1787831417222.jpg?v=1787831822"},{"product_id":"the-oiran-chozan-of-chojiya-from-the-series-love-letters-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Oiran Chōzan of Chōjiya, from the series Love Letters - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting the Oiran Chōzan of Chōjiya and her attendant during a spring stroll.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō depicts the Oiran Chōzan of the Chōjiya house. It belongs to the series titled Love Letters, a collection that explores the refined world of the Yoshiwara pleasure district. Bunchō, active during the mid-Edo period, is recognised for his yakusha-e (actor prints) and bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women). His work often features slender figures with elongated features, a stylistic choice that defines his contribution to the Ukiyo-e genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition shows Chōzan accompanied by a young attendant, or kamuro. The figures are positioned beneath a large, yellow parasol, which provides a geometric contrast to the falling cherry blossom petals. The grey background suggests a cool, atmospheric setting, perhaps an evening stroll during the spring season. The artist employs a restrained colour palette, allowing the soft pinks of the garments and the bright yellow of the parasol to draw the eye. The delicate line work captures the texture of the textiles and the subtle expressions of the subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō was a contemporary of Katsukawa Shunshō, and the two collaborated on the famous book Ehon Butai Ōgi. His prints are valued for their technical precision and their ability to convey the specific social status of the courtesans he portrayed. This print provides a glimpse into the aesthetic values of the 18th-century urban culture in Edo. The attention to detail in the hair ornaments and the layered kimono demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship involved in the production of these prints. By focusing on the interaction between the Oiran and her attendant, Bunchō creates a narrative moment that feels both composed and immediate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578618712399,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578618777935,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578618876239,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578618909007,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578618974543,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Oiran-Ch-zan-of-Ch-jiya-from-the-series-Love-Letters_Poster_CompositorV1_1787832116217.jpg?v=1787832223"},{"product_id":"the-actor-nakamura-tomijuro-as-a-woman-wearing-a-red-cape-ippitsusai-buncho","title":"The Actor Nakamura Tomijuro as a Woman Wearing a Red Cape - Ippitsusai Bunchō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicting the kabuki actor Nakamura Tomijuro in a female role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō captures the actor Nakamura Tomijuro in a female role, a common practice in the kabuki theatre of the Edo period. The artist is known for his yakusha-e, or actor prints, which often focused on the specific mannerisms and facial expressions of performers. Bunchō was a contemporary of Katsukawa Shunshō, and together they moved away from the stylised, generic faces of earlier ukiyo-e artists to create more individualised portraits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor draped in a striking red cape adorned with a circular crest featuring a wheel-like motif. Beneath this, the costume displays a pattern of white blossoms against a muted ground. The figure is positioned against a simple interior backdrop, with a curtain and a sliding door frame providing a sense of space. The lines are precise and controlled, typical of the mid-eighteenth-century print style that prioritised clarity and elegance over excessive ornamentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunchō’s work is valued for its restraint. He avoids clutter, allowing the viewer to focus on the posture and the costume of the actor. The colour palette is limited, relying on earthy tones and the bold red of the cape to create visual interest. This print is a fine example of the nishiki-e, or brocade print, technique, which allowed for multiple colours to be applied to a single sheet. The print serves as a record of a specific performance, capturing the ephemeral nature of the theatre in a permanent medium. The artist’s signature and seal are visible in the lower left, confirming the provenance of this piece within the broader context of Japanese printmaking history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/jo-and-uba-of-takasago-looking-at-the-rising-sun-totoya-hokkei\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eJo and Uba of Takasago Looking at the Rising Sun - Totoya Hokkei — Totoya Hokkei\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ippitsusai Bunchô","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578783404367,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578783469903,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578783568207,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578783600975,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578783666511,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/The-Actor-Nakamura-Tomijuro-as-a-Woman-Wearing-a-Red-Cape_Poster_CompositorV1_1787832392002.jpg?v=1787832707"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.solisprints.com\/en-nz\/collections\/ippitsusai-buncho.oembed","provider":"Solis Prints","version":"1.0","type":"link"}