Shiranui Monogatari - Utagawa Toyokuni III 歌川豊国（三世） / Utagawa Kunisada I 歌川国貞（初代) - 1853 - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)

Shiranui Monogatari しらぬひ譚（しらぬいものがたり）
Utagawa Toyokuni III 歌川豊国（三世） / Utagawa Kunisada I 歌川国貞（初代）

Description
This impressive triptych is based on *Shiranui Monogatari*, one of the most ambitious and enduring gōkan narratives of the Edo period.
The story follows Princess Wakana, also known as Shiranui, daughter of the daimyō Ōtomo Sōrin, who seeks vengeance against the Kikuchi clan responsible for the downfall of her family.

Unlike many popular tales, this narrative was developed over more than 40 years and continued by multiple authors.
As a result, the story is known for its layered structure, shifting perspectives, and dramatic complexity, qualities that made it especially compelling as a subject for visual storytelling.

In this work, Utagawa Toyokuni III (also known as Utagawa Kunisada I) translates the intensity of the narrative into a powerful visual composition.
Bold figure designs, expressive gestures, and strong color contrasts create a sense of tension and movement across the three sheets, guiding the viewer through the unfolding drama.

Created in 1853, during the late Edo period, this triptych represents Kunisada’s mature narrative style, combining theatrical expression with refined compositional balance.
The series is documented in the collection of the Tokyo Metropolitan Library, highlighting its importance as both a literary and historical visual record.

A rare and visually striking triptych that embodies the ambition, drama, and storytelling richness of late Edo ukiyo-e, making it a highly desirable work for collectors of Japanese woodblock prints.

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Artist Profile
1786 Born in Edo, Japan.
Entered the studio of Utagawa Toyokuni at the age of 15 or 16.
Later adopted the name Kunisada and became known as Toyokuni III.
Died in 1864.

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Accessories
None.

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Dimensions & Weight
Each sheet: 37 × 25.5 cm.
Triptych (3 sheets).
Weight: 14.5 g (total).

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Technique & Condition
Woodcut print on washi paper.
Condition: Good.

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Shipping
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