Comments - Terrific scene from the kabuki play "Onna Seigen," a tragic tale about Princess Hakano, who becomes a nun after learning that her fiance, Matsuwakamaru, has died. She goes crazy after her sister, Princess Sakura, becomes engaged to a man who looks just like her fiance (and in fact, is). Reduced to begging, Seigen is shown wearing a tattered hat and robes as she rides in the villainous boatman Sota's ferry. The nun looks over shoulder with a smile as Matsuwakamaru uses a fishing net to retrieve Sakura's kimono from the river. Red flames rise from the fire basket he carries as he leans intently over the edge of the boat, pulling in the robe. Cherry blossoms frame the scene and the water ripples with gentle undulations. From left, the actors are Arashi Kichisaburo III as Shioirimura no Sota, Iwai Kumesaburo III as Seigen-ni, and Suketakaya Takasuke III as Yoshida no Matsuwakamaru. An intriguing subject with expressive figures and a lovely natural setting, also in the collection of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 28 1/8" x 13 7/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Backed with old paper. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Some light rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.