Toyokuni


Toyokuni

(tōyō`ko͞onē), 1769–1825, Japanese color-print artist, whose name in full was Toyokuni Utagawa. He was one of the leading masters of the period of the popular ukiyo-e school. After many failures to appeal to the public taste, he attained great success with portrayals of stage favorites in dramatic situations. His work shows vigorous, sweeping lines and striking color contrasts. It attracted numerous imitators and a host of pupils.