Utagawa Toyokuni III, "Prince Genji and Bird Watching"

The Tale of Genji is a classic literary text some consider to be the world’s first novel. Written in the early 11th century, the story centers on the romantic life of Hiraku Genji, son of a famous Japanese emperor. Toyokuni III created numerous triptychs of the Tale of Genji and of Prince Genji in his lifetime. In this woodblock print, Price Genji is shown in an elegant home overlooking a small pond being presented with caged song birds.

Date: c. 1848
Size: Oban Triptych (each sheet approx. 9” x 14”)
Condition: Excellent color and condition

Custom matting available for triptych prints. Sizes will be determined for best presentation in consultation with customer - overall size range will be 20" - 22" (height) X 38" - 40" (width). Note that additional shipping charges apply (sorry, no international shipping available for matted triptychs). Please select option below.

Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) (1786-1865) is one of Japan’s most prolific and well-known Japanese woodblock print artists to emerge during the peak of ukiyo-e period printmaking. As was common among Japanese artists at the time, his moniker evolved from his teacher and master, Toyokuni I (1769-1825), as his prominence grew.