Biography

Born in 1797 in Edo and passing away on April 14, 1861, Kuniyoshi's early life remains somewhat veiled in mystery. His father, a silk dyer, named the boy Yoshisaburo.<br><br> Showing a proclivity for drawing from an early age, young Yoshisaburo pursued his passion fervently. At the age of 14, he embarked on his artistic journey, joining the renowned Utagawa school, which was then under the tutelage of the esteemed ukiyo-e master Toyokuni Utagawa (1769 - 1825). Alternative sources suggest prior training under Katsukawa Shuntei.<br><br> Recognizing his pupil's talent, Toyokuni bestowed upon the young Yoshisaburo the name Kuniyoshi. It was customary for students entering an art school to receive a new artist name connected to the master's name. Kuniyoshi's name was derived from the conclusion of Toyokuni's name, kuni, merged with the commencement of the boy's name, Yoshisaburo, resulting in the appellation Kuniyoshi Utagawa.<br><br> Following his departure from the Utagawa School, Kuniyoshi encountered considerable challenges establishing himself as a ukiyo-e designer. He even endured periods where he sustained himself by repairing and selling floor mats.<br><br> Source: https://www.artelino.com/articles/kuniyoshi.asp