Comments - Beautiful five panel kabuki print by Kuniyoshi depicting actors along the Sumida River on a starry night. The figures are all dressed in informal blue summer cotton kimono, and several carry fans. At left, two men exchange unhappy frowns as rays of light radiate from the glowing stars overhead. At right, a beauty relaxes on a bench, looking up with a somewhat surprised expression, her mouth slightly agape. She has a white towel draped over her shoulder and carries a flat fan with a design of swimming fish. The man next to her crouches down as he reaches into a tobacco pouch to fill his pipe, looking suspiciously over his shoulder. Many boats can be seen on the river, and Ryogoku Bridge at left is crowded with people enjoying the evening cool. A fantastic design done primarily in tones of blue with just a few accents of red, black, and yellow. A lovely panoramic scene in a rare five panel format. A great choice for a kabuki enthusiast or Kuniyoshi collector.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 15" x 51 1/8" + top margin as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Five panels, not attached at the seams. Slight paper remnants on reverse along top edge from previous folio mounting. A few wormholes and small holes, repaired, blends well. Slight soiling and rubbing, a few creases near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.