Utagawa Toyokuni II, "Tiger and Bamboo"

With a fierce stare and a winding tail, the tiger in this woodblock print by Utagawa Toyokuni II (Toyoshige) prowls through a thicket of swaying bamboo with unmistakable confidence. Long admired in Japanese art as symbols of strength and bravery, tigers were also celebrated for their wild, untamed spirit—and Toyoshige captures that spirit beautifully here. Bold, playful, and full of personality, this wonderfully rare design is an exemplary work showcasing the imagination of Edo-period artists. A real gem!

Date: ca. 1820s
Format: Oban Diptych (Kakemono)
Publisher: Yamamotoya Heikichi
Condition: Excellent good color and condition

Utagawa Toyokuni II ( Toyoshige) (1777–1835) was a pupil of Utagawa Toyokuni I, and after his master’s death he assumed the name Toyokuni II. However, his claim to the title was later disputed by his contemporary Utagawa Kunisada, who ultimately became widely recognized as Toyokuni III. Despite this naming controversy, Toyokuni II’s works remain well respected and are actively sought after by collectors today. He is often referred to as Toyoshige to distinguish him from the competing lineage of the Utagawa school’s Toyokuni successors.