Three Kabuki Actors Playing Hanetsuki
Compared to his teacher, Utagawa Toyokuni, Kuniyasu portrayed actors with more angular, sharp-edged lines, particularly in the treatment of facial details.
This rare surimono triptych was produced in honor of the New Year. Three actors play the badminton-like game called hanetsuki, a traditional New Year's activity. Humorous poems by contemporary poets are inscribed throughout the three sheets.
This rare surimono triptych was produced in honor of the New Year. Three actors play the badminton-like game called hanetsuki, a traditional New Year's activity. Humorous poems by contemporary poets are inscribed throughout the three sheets.
Artwork Details
- Title: Three Kabuki Actors Playing Hanetsuki
- Artist: Utagawa Kuniyasu (Japanese, 1794–1834)
- Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
- Date: ca. 1823
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Triptych of woodblock prints (surimono); ink and color on paper
- Dimensions: Triptych, each: 7 1/4 x 8 3/8 in. (18.4 x 21.3 cm)
- Classification: Prints
- Credit Line: Purchase, Jack Greene Gift, 2001
- Object Number: 2001.715.4a–c
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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