Comments - Dramatic kabuki scene of a hag attacking a young beauty, gripping a large knife in her hand as the woman pleads for mercy at her side. The elderly crone grabs a rope with her other hand, which is tied to a large stone dangling overhead at right. Beneath the stone, a warrior magically appears on a swirling cloud that drifts in from the open window, scowling angrily as he watches. At left, a samurai has drawn his sword, waiting for the moment to attack the old woman. The setting is a rustic home with torn shoji windows at left, and holes in the wooden wall at center. An intriguing image with expressive figures and a nicely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 29 3/4" x 13 7/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some light rubbing and soiling in subject. A few creases near edges. Some small holes and losses repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.