Toyokuni, whose full name was Toyokuni Utagawa, was a Japanese colorprint artist, and one of the leading masters of the period of the popular school (ukiyoye). After many failures to appeal to the public taste, he attained great success with portrayals of stage favorites in dramtic siutations. His work shows vigorous, sweeping lines, and striking color contrasts. It attracted numerous imitators and a host of pupils.
Bibliography:
The Columbia Encyclopedia, 2nd edition, c. 1950
