What is "chikanobu"

Chikanobu is a Japanese name which can apply to a number of artists of the Edo period:

• Kanō Chikanobu (1660-1728) of the Kanō school
• Matsuno Chikanobu ( fl. 1720s) of the Kaigetsudō school
• Kitagawa Chikanobu (fl. early 19th century), student of Utamaro
• Toyohara Chikanobu (c. 1838-1912) of the Utagawa school