Actor Ichikawa Jukai III as Kimura Shigenari - Natori Shunsen (1886-1960) - Japan

Natori Shunsen (1886–1960) – Actor Ichikawa Jukai III as Kimura Shigenari (木村重成) – From the series New Edition of Theatrical Portraits (Shinban butai no sugata-e) – 1952
Description
Artist: Natori Shunsen (名取春仙)
Title: Actor Ichikawa Jukai III as Kimura Shigenari (市川寿海 の 木村重成)
Series: New Edition of Theatrical Portraits (Shinban butai no sugata-e - 新版舞台の姿絵)
Date: Showa 27 (1952), May
Publisher: Watanabe Shozaburo (渡辺庄三郎)
Format: Large Ōban tate-e (approx. 39.5 x 27.0 cm)
Description:
A dramatic Shin-hanga ōkubi-e (large-head portrait) by master actor-portraitist Natori Shunsen depicting Kabuki actor Ichikawa Jukai III in the tragic role of samurai Kimura Shigenari from the historical play Kiri Hitoha. Set against a dark grey background illuminated by a candle light stand (shokudai), the print exhibits exquisite detail in the facial expression, soft hair embossing, and patterned robe. Signed Shunsen with artist red seal at the upper left, alongside publisher and character margin notations.
Condition Report
* Overall State: Excellent / Near Mint condition.
* Impression: Superb. Fine, crisp carving and printing details visible in the hairline, eyebrows, and textile patterns.
* Color: Rich, vibrant original pigments; deep greens, muted golds, and flesh tones remain fully saturated without fading.
* Margins/Size: Full margins intact, clean and unclipped.
* Defects / Wear:
* Unbacked (clean reverse side).
* Very faint, minimal uniform paper toning along the extreme outer border edges; main image area is exceptionally clean with no foxing, stains, tears, or creases.