Original Kunisada III (1848 - 1920) Japanese Woodblock Print
A Clearance Opportunity! Meiji or Edo era Original
Thousands of prints sell every year in the Fuji Arts clearance. Savvy shoppers enjoy buying both originals and old reprints at just $29.99. And who wouldn't? It's fun to shop, the cost is low, and before you know it, exciting new prints show up at your doorstep.
If you're new to Fuji Arts clearance, here is the best tip we can give you: Check often, because the best prints move lightning fast!
Shini-e - Literally meaning "death prints," shini-e are a category of Japanese woodblock commemorating the death of a famous kabuki actor, or less commonly, an artist or musician. These memorial portraits often depict the actor dressed in light blue death robes, or portraying a famous role associated with the individual. Some include verses or death poems along with the actor's age and date of death, or a posthumous Buddhist name. Other conventional iconography includes lotus blossoms or petals, incense burners, and prayer beads. The tragic suicide of Ichikawa Danjuro VIII in 1854 at the age of thirty-two resulted in nearly 200 shini-e of the actor. Some shini-e are recycled from earlier kabuki prints with the background blocks recut so they could be rushed into production. Most shini-e are unsigned, although some include the artist's signature. These designs are an interesting area of collecting.
Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)
Image Size - Oban, approximately 14 1/2" x 9 1/2" (not measured individually)
Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Pink staining. Please see photos for details.
- Prints that have moved through our auctions and are ready to go below cost.
- Prints that are overstocked.
- Prints with condition issues.
Prints are identified as original or reprint, and artist information is offered when known. We include excellent photos of each print, as well as a brief condition report.
While you're shopping, keep in mind that some condition issues could simply be framed out, some could be easily repaired, and others just allow you to enjoy owning a 19th century original at a bargain price. Of course, many prints are in excellent condition, just needing to be cleared out.
So, check out all the clearance offers and find prints that suit your taste.
Enjoy the Clearance treasure hunt!
