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From an original wood block print by Utagawa Kuniyoshi as seen below in "Other Images"

This stunning fine art Japanese Samurai figurine makes an interesting addition to any collection or home decor. Be sure to order your 3-D adaptation of this popular work of Oriental art while supplies last!

The Kabuki Theater

From the beginning of the 17th century, Kabuki is a prominent feature in the nightlife of the big cities. Initially the rebellious plays have a strong erotic atmosphere. However, in 1629 the leaders banished the women and later, from 1652 onwards, the young men were also banished from the stage. Because of this more room was created for the story itself. The performance could last a full day, beginning with a heroic history play, followed by a dramatic, sometimes ironic play about daily life. Dramas about an impossible love, ending with a double suicide were very popular. There was a lot of contact between players and audience. A lot of shouting and stamping went on and the actors were spurred on loudly.

Japanese Art

The world portrayed by the art of Japanese printing can be captured under one romantic, by origin Buddhist, name - ukiyo-e, or the floating world. It's a world of brief amusement and pleasure - of daily life like it took place between the 17th and 19th century in theaters, on the street and during parties and festivals. This changed when ukiyo-e made its entrance. After a turbulent period of political turmoil, the Tokugawa period commenced - a period which would herald a strict, dictatorial regime by the so-called Shoguns, who belonged to the Tokugawa family.

This changed when ukiyo-e made its entrance. After a turbulent period of political turmoil, the Tokugawa period commenced - a period which would herald a strict, dictatorial regime by the so-called Shoguns, who belonged to the Tokugawa family.

The Faithful Samurai (1847-1848) The series Seishu Gishi Den, portraits of 47 Ronin, Samurai without a master, is based on a true heroic story: in 1701 Lord Asano van Ako was provoked by Kira, the arrogant chamberlain of the shogun. Asano lost self control and wounded Kira and was forced to kill himself according to ceremony. 47 faithful Samurai were intent on revenge for a year. Finally Kira's house was attacked and Kira was beheaded. All 47 Samurai were forced to commit suppuku. They died like heroes of the people and the blood-curdling story was played many times in the Kabuki theater.

Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861) After a difficult start as an independent artist he got his break with his series "The 108 Heroes of the Suikoden", based on a popular Chinese tale from the 14th Century. He developed into the best known portraitist of heroes and warriors. The series Seishu Gishi Den, portraits of 47 Ronin, Samurai without a master, is based on a true heroic story.