Toyokuni I (1769 - 1825 )
The son of a puppet sculptor, Toyokuni was born and worked in Edo. Entering the studio of Toyoharu at the age of 14, Toyokuni drew inspiration from the famous contemporary artists around him, particularly from the great Utamaro. Toyokuni produced elegant courtesans, fine actor prints, book illustrations, and paintings. He had a strong reputation during his lifetime and taught a host of talented students, including Kunisada and Kuniyoshi.
Considered one of the most influential ukiyo-e print artists, Toyokuni catapulted the Utagawa school to fame and completed remarkable work depicting beautiful women and kabuki actors. During the early 1790s, his works focused on courtesans. His beauties bear an elegance and idealism indicative of the period. These works set a standard for bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) to come. Through the 1790s and 1800s, Toyokuni not only captured actors’ stage roles, but also their private lives and individual personalities in his yakusha-e (actor prints).
Ronin Annex | Art & Gifts
Uncover affordable art prints and great values in fine East Asian art from the 18th-21st century in Ronin Annex. From original ukiyo-e woodblock prints and modern reprints, to out-of-print books and conservation supplies, everything in this collection is priced under $500. Unyieldingly beautiful and forever unique, these pieces are perfectly suited for both the new collector and the longtime connoisseur. With over 1000 works of art priced under $500, let Ronin Annex help you find a meaningful gift, decorate your home, protect your collection, and craft your library.
8 Products
Toyokuni I
Kabuki Actor Onoe Kikugoro as Shohei's Wife Otsuru
JP-107610