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Original Japanese Print – Utagawa Kunisada Toyokuni III – The Tale of Genji Chapter 38 Suzumushi – Edo 1851

Original Japanese Print – Utagawa Kunisada Toyokuni III – The Tale of Genji Chapter 38 Suzumushi – Edo 1851

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    Original traditional Ukiyo-e woodblock print. [This print is not a modern reproduction]

    Print type: Genji-e 源氏絵

    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni III / Kunisada 歌川豊国三代・歌川国貞
    signed 香蝶楼豊国画 Kôchôrô Toyokuni ga

    Series title: 「其姿紫の写絵 卅八」 (Sono sugata yukari no utsushi-e)
    Magic lantern projections of this romantic purple figure, No. 38

    Chapter: Chapter 38 Suzumushi 鈴虫 of The Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari)

    Date of publication: 1851 (Kaei 4 嘉永四年), Edo period

    Censors: Kinugasa 衣笠, Murata 村田

    Publisher: Izumiya Ichibei 和泉市兵衛 (Kansendō)

    Format: Ōban yoko-e 大判横絵 35.5 x 24 cm

    Origin: Japan, unearthed in Kanagawa Prefecture

    About the artist:

    Utagawa Kunisada (1786–1865), also known as Toyokuni III, is one of the leading artists of the Utagawa school during the Edo period. Immensely popular in his time, he is famous for his portraits of actors, female beauties, and compositions inspired by classical Japanese literature. His work is distinguished by the elegance of the figures, the richness of the textiles, and a very lively narrative sense, particularly appreciated in prints related to The Tale of Genji.

    Subject:

    This original print illustrates Chapter 38, Suzumushi, of The Tale of Genji. The scene takes place in a refined interior, with tatami mats, sliding partitions, and floral decor, and features three noble characters in a very theatrical composition.

    The standing figure on the right, wearing a sumptuous blue kimono with momiji patterns, is most likely an evocation of Prince Genji. This motif of red maple leaves strengthens the connection to autumn, the central season of the Suzumushi chapter, known for its melancholic and refined tone. Kunisada offers here an elegant and narrative visual interpretation of an episode from the novel, in the spirit of Edo prints inspired by classical literature.

    We particularly like the palette dominated by deep blues, the balance between architecture and characters, as well as the beauty of the costumes, whose details give the scene a lot of presence.

    Condition:

    Very beautiful colors. Paper in good condition and margins in overall good condition, no creases. Traces of old and very well-done repair on the right side (see photos), barely visible. The reverse has some soiling but it is invisible on the front.

    🦝 Our opinion:

    A superb Edo print from our favorite Kunisada! We love the presence of Genji with his magnificent kimono with momiji, the beautiful Japanese interior, and the atmosphere of a scene straight out of a novel. The representations of the famous Tale of Genji are always very beautiful in Kunisada's work! An authentic piece for lovers of ukiyo-e, the Genji monogatari, ancient Japanese art, and beautiful objects steeped in history.

    Discover all our authentic prints in our collection of Japanese prints.

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    A KOGEDO certificate of authenticity can be provided upon request after purchase.

    By shopping at KOGEDO, you help preserve traditional Japanese craftsmanship and culture.

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    Kogechan, la mascotte tanuki de KOGEDO, en tenue traditionnelle japonaise violette, souriant et levant la patte pour accompagner la mini FAQ sur les produits artisanaux japonais.

    📦 Is delivery really free?

    Yes! It is offered and tracked at a Mondial Relay pick-up point (or to your home if your order is over €150). Each print is carefully protected, packaged, and shipped from France.

    🎌 Are the prints authentic?

    Absolutely. All our prints are genuine handmade woodblock prints sourced in Japan from local vendors or markets and inspected by us. They are authentic and steeped in history.

    🧧 Are the prints originals or reproductions?

    Our prints are all genuine, handcrafted Japanese prints. We offer both original ukiyo-e, often produced during the Edo or Meiji periods, and more recent re-editions/reproductions, generally from the Shôwa period. Everything is transparent and specified in each product's description.

    ✨ It’s a one-of-a-kind piece. What if someone buys it before I do?

    Unfortunately… there won’t be two of them! If you like a product, don’t wait too long. Once sold, it disappears from the shop. But sometimes some tableware may be available in multiple copies!

    🔁 Can I return an item if I change my mind?

    Yes, you have 14 days after receipt to contact us. We will always find a benevolent solution if an item does not suit you.

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    💳 Do you offer installment payments?

    Yes. For orders from €250, you can pay in 3 interest-free installments via Klarna.

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