Female Ghost

"Female Ghost" is a captivating ukiyo-e woodblock print from 1852, crafted by the celebrated Edo period artist Utagawa Kunisada, also known as Toyokuni III. This artwork falls under the yūrei-zu genre, which translates to "ghost pictures" a popular theme in mid-19th-century Japan. The print vividly portrays a female spirit in traditional ghostly attire, surrounded by flames and featuring symbolic elements like a scroll and a red cloth.

Utagawa Kunisada was a prolific artist renowned for his yakusha-e (actor images) and various other ukiyo-e prints. His realistic depiction of female subjects set him apart from his contemporaries, who often favored idealized representations. Throughout his career, Kunisada created thousands of designs, securing his place as a prominent figure in the art world.

The "Female Ghost" print is particularly notable for its theatrical context, depicting a scene from a kabuki play staged in 1852. It showcases the character of Princess Yaeki, part of a larger series of prints featuring various characters from the same play. Kunisada's attention to intricate details and symbolic elements specific to the theatrical performance adds depth and authenticity to the artwork.

This print provides valuable insights into the historical context and artistic conventions of its time, including its size, format, title, subject, and provenance. "Female Ghost" exemplifies the blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics, supernatural themes, and theatrical influences in ukiyo-e art, highlighting Kunisada's mastery and innovation within the genre.