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Can you help me read the signature and the little text of this 19th century japanese print which might represent a kabuki actor.
I have seen another print of the same unusual format from the same period.
Thanks!

The signature reads 'Nanboku ga'(南北画), probably referring to the Edo ukiyo-e artist and writer Tōzaian Nanboku (東西庵南北, died 1827).
The print depicts Onoe Kikugorô III in a kabuki role 'Kozuno Sami (こづのさみ)?. A similar print is in the Ritsumeikan, depicting Segawa Kikunojô V in the play 'Zōho Imoseyama' (増補妹背山), performed in the Kawarazaki-za in Edo in 05/1816.

Could well be the same play.

Both seem to be cheap stencil prints (kappazuri) in hosoban format.

Guy.

URL Title :Ritsumeikan, arcUP1650

Thanks a lot Guy for both messages. Great detective job!
Francis

I had another look at both prints and found that they are in fact a dyptich.....bingo!

Guy.

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