Comments - Handsome illustration from the kabuki drama "Kokusen'ya Gassen," the story of the warrior Watonai traveling to China to help restore the Ming Dynasty. The scene shows Watonai gripping his sword at left, angry that General Kanki, the wife of his half-sister, will not agree to assist him with his plan. Kanki stands at right stroking his beard and grinning, dressed in a magnificent robe patterned with dragons and trimmed with ruffles. His wife Kinshojo watches from top center with a worried expression, a fan topped with horsehair in her hand. Two similarly dressed attendants flank her, waving fans above her head. The elderly woman below seems quite distraught at the conflict. From left to right, the actors are Ichikawa Sadanji, Ichikawa Danjuro IX, Onoe Kikugoro V, Bando Kakitsu, Sawamura Gennosuke, and Nakamura Shikan. Nicely detailed figures and lively color in this scene from the popular play, with embossing in the white hair.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 29" x 14"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some spotting or staining in subject. Please see photos for details. Good overall.