Early Life and Apprenticeship Ichiyosai Kuniteru II, born Yamada Kunijirō in 1830 in the bustling city of Edo – modern-day Tokyo – emerged into a world steeped in the traditions of *ukiyo-e*, the “pictures of the floating world.” His early life was one immersed in the artistic currents of the time. He wasn’t born into privilege, but rather entered the art world through dedicated study and apprenticeship. Kuniteru II began his training under the renowned Utagawa Kunisada I, a master of *ukiyo-e* known for his actor portraits and captivating depictions of everyday life. This foundational perio…