The Cat Witch of Okabe – Utagawa Kuniyoshi
The Cat Witch of Okabe – Utagawa Kuniyoshi
A supernatural cat spirit sits beneath the gaze of an enormous feline apparition in this striking 1847 woodblock print by Japanese artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi. The figure, portrayed by kabuki actor Onoe Kikugorō III, holds a brush while gradually taking on cat-like features of her own.
The image is the central panel of an original triptych inspired by the legend of the Cat Witch of Okabe. Its exaggerated scale, intricate patterns, muted colors, and unsettling theatrical atmosphere make the composition feel surprisingly modern.
Utagawa Kuniyoshi was one of the most imaginative artists of the late Edo period. Best known for his warriors, actors, ghosts, monsters, and playful depictions of cats, he combined traditional Japanese printmaking with bold compositions and a distinctive sense of humor.
Artwork Details
- Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi
- Title: The Cat Witch of Okabe
- Original title: Kabuki Actor Onoe Kikugorō III as the Cat Witch of Okabe
- Date: 1847
- Period: Edo period
- Medium: Color woodblock print
- Format: Central panel from an original triptych
Print & Frame Details
- Fine Art Printing: Printed using advanced 12-color fine art printing technology for rich, accurate colors and detailed tonal depth.
- Paper: Smooth, museum-quality matte paper with a clean, glare-free finish.
- Paper Weight: 200 gsm / 80 lb.
- Frame Material: Durable pine wood.
- Frame Profile: Approximately 20 mm thick and 10–14 mm wide.
- Protection: Lightweight, shatterproof plexiglass protects the artwork.
- Available Sizes: Offered in a range of sizes to suit different rooms and wall arrangements.
- Responsibly Sourced: Printed on FSC-certified paper and framed with responsibly sourced wood.
- Made to Order: Each piece is produced especially for your order, helping to reduce unnecessary stock and waste.
- Worldwide Shipping: Produced through our international network of trusted print studios and shipped worldwide.