“Kanjincho” Kabuki Triptych By Kuniyoshi

This fine, well-detailed ōban triptych of Kanjinchō (The Subscription List) is a ukiyo-e woodblock by Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861). The print bears the publisher mark of Yamaguchiya Tōbei and the Fuku & Muramatsu censor pairing dates this woodblock to c. 1849-51.

This powerful kabuki triptych captures the drama of Kanjinchō (The Subscription List) – the celebrated scene in which the warrior-monk Benkei bluffs his way through a barrier to protect Yoshitsune. Kuniyoshi’s flowing line, crisp patterning and deep indigo palette heighten the stage tension, with Benkei front and centre, flanked by loyal retainers.

Further connoisseur details are visible: actor/role cartouches identify figures including Musashibō Benkei, Ise Saburō, Kamei Rokurō, and Hitachibō Kaison. The signature reads Ichiyūsai Kuniyoshi ga (一勇斎国芳画). At the lower edge appear the double nanushi censor seals “Fuku & Muramatsu” (used together 1849-51) and, in a boxed device, the publisher’s mark 「ト山口」 of Yamaguchiya Tōbei (Kinkōdō) – all aligning the impression to Kaei 2-4 (1849-1851) and to an Edo performance at the Kawarazaki-za.

• Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861)
• Title: Kanjinchō (The Subscription List)
• Play/Theatre: Kabuki, Kawarazaki-za (Edo)
• Date: c. 1849-51 (Kaei era)
• Publisher: Yamaguchiya Tōbei (Kinkōdō) – seal 「ト山口」
• Censors: Double nanushi Fuku & Muramatsu
• Signature: 一勇斎国芳画 (Ichiyūsai Kuniyoshi ga)
• Format: Ōban tate-e triptych (nishiki-e, colour woodblock print)
• Origin: Japan, Edo period
• Materials: Pigments on washi
• Characters shown: Musashibō Benkei; Ise Saburō; Kamei Rokurō; Hitachibō Kaison (with attendants)
• Condition: Please see images; age-appropriate toning and minor handling marks noted.
• Print Size: 77 x 35 cms approx
• Framed in a modern matt black wooden frame