Comments - Terrific kabuki scene from the play "Juni-toki kaikei Soga," one of the many dramas about the famous Soga Brothers. Here, Ichikawa Sadanji I plays Sogo no Goro Tokimune, confronting his enemy during a driving rain during the night attack on Yoritomo's hunting camp. He faces Suketsune's retainer Gosho no Goromaru, portrayed by Ichikawa Yonezo, who has hidden himself beneath a beauty's white kimono. Goro glares at him furiously, gripping his sword and frowning, his wet hair sticking to his face. He wears his trademark blue kimono patterned with butterflies over a suit of armor. Goromaru regards him with a determined stare as he lifts the robe above his head. A dramatic image with the large colorful figure set against the gray night sky and driving rain. The actors are Ichikawa Sadanji as Soga Goro Tokimune and as Ichikawa Yonezo as Goromaru. Detailed with touches of burnishing in the armor, delicate cloth embossing in the white robe, and fine bokashi shading in the sky. The British Museum has this image in its collection.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 1/8" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Light spotting and soiling throughout. A couple small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.