Set of 2 original small-format Japanese kabuki woodblock prints by Tanaka Shikō (田中紫光), dating to approximately c1920s.
Shikō is documented for his early 20th-century kabuki actor portraits, including small woodblock-printed formats such as postcards, senshafuda, and related ephemera. These two prints fit that tradition closely.
The pair depicts prominent kabuki actors:
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Ichikawa Sadanji II (市川左團次)
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Matsumoto Kōshirō VII (松本幸四郎) as Musashibō Benkei (武蔵坊弁慶)
The Kōshirō/Benkei subject is documented among Shikō’s 1920s actor designs associated with Kanjinchō.
Both works feature strong close-up yakusha-e portrait compositions, bold black key lines, delicate facial modeling, and vivid period colors. Each print bears Shikō’s 紫光 signature/seal.
Details:
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Artist: Tanaka Shikō (田中紫光)
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Date: Circa 1920s
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Quantity: 2 prints
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Subject: Kabuki actors / yakusha-e
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Actors: Ichikawa Sadanji II and Matsumoto Kōshirō VII
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Role: Kōshirō VII as Musashibō Benkei
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Technique: Color woodblock printing
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Material: Japanese paper
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Size each: Approx. 9 × 11 cm
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Approx. size: 3.54 × 4.33 inches
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Backs: Blank
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Not postcards
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Original period prints
Condition:
Good antique condition with age-related toning, light edge and corner wear, and minor surface marks. The colors remain attractive and the impressions are clear. Please examine the photographs carefully for exact condition.
A strong pair for collectors of Tanaka Shikō, kabuki actor prints, yakusha-e, Taishō-era woodblocks, and small-format Japanese print ephemera.
Shipping: Free Worldwide Shipping from Japan.
