Comments - Dramatic scene from the kabuki play "Kosode Soga Azami no Ironui." After the priest Seishin is found having a love affair with the geisha Izayoi, he is banished from the temple. The pair decides to commit suicide together by leaping into the river, but things conspire to prevent their drowning. Here, the disgraced Seishin attacks the young temple page Koizuka Motome after discovering he is carrying fifty gold pieces in his robe. Motome kneels on the ground at left, trying to defend himself with his umbrella as Seishin raises his sword overhead. Izayoi watches at right, holding her hand out in a mild stopping gesture, but she almost seems to be smiling. She wears a tie-dyed red kimono bordered with a blue striped print, a white cloth draped over her head and caught between her teeth. Rain slants down across the stormy night sky, and the stone torii gate of the temple rises behind them. From left, the actors are Ichimura Uzaemon XIII, Ichikawa Kodanji IV and Iwai Kumesaburo III. A great image with expressive figures and a handsomely detailed setting, also in the collection of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, not attached at the seams. Vertical fold near left edge of right panel. Tear at left edge of center panel, thinning and slight separation along fold line, a few small holes, repaired, blends well. Slight soiling and rubbing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.