Original woodblock print - small hole in right bottom edge.
9" X 6.5"
Hello, this item is a Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print attributed to Utagawa Toyokuni III, also known as Utagawa Kunisada, active during the late Edo period, with production dating to circa 1850. The composition depicts elegantly dressed figures in a nocturnal setting dominated by deep blue tones, a palette strongly associated with mid 19th century Edo prints following the introduction of imported Prussian blue. The format, figure style, facial rendering, and cartouches are consistent with Toyokuni III’s work, particularly his bijin and narrative scenes produced for the commercial print market. The sheet size of approximately 9 by 6.5 inches suggests this is either a trimmed chuban format or a section from a larger original composition, which was common for framed presentation in later Western collections.
Condition is fair, with visible wear consistent with age, including a small hole at the lower right edge and general surface handling. The print appears to be an original Edo period impression rather than a later Meiji or modern restrike, though trimming and framing reduce collector value. Comparable Toyokuni III woodblock prints from the 1840s to 1850s, in similar condition and without full margins, typically sell between $300 and $700 USD depending on subject and color preservation.