(Three Thieves and a Man from the Kabuki Play of Jiraiya Story) 1851

This woodblock print, "Three Thieves and a Man from the Kabuki Play of Jiraiya Story," was created in 1851 by Utagawa Kunisada, one of the most prolific artists of the Edo period. The print depicts a scene from the popular kabuki play "Jiraiya," featuring four figures, three thieves, and a man who is likely Jiraiya himself. The use of bold colors and dynamic poses is typical of Kunisada's work and reflects the theatricality of kabuki. The print's size and format, "ōban" (large vertical), suggests it was intended for a wide audience. This work is a prime example of the “ukiyo-e” (pictures of the floating world) style, reflecting everyday life and popular culture of Edo-period Japan.