Comments - Intriguing kabuki scene of a komuso or traveling priest caught in the midst of a swordfight. He stands calmly in the center, frowning over his shoulder, his shakuhachi flute in hand. A servant stumbles in front of him, one knee on the ground, waving the priest's large basket hat. On either side of him, samurai tumble backwards, waving their swords. Each warrior wears a colorful kimono over armor, their robes trimmed with swinging fringe. The fight takes place in the forest, with pine trees in dark silhouette against the night sky behind them. Wonderful color and detail in the figures with an atmospheric setting, finely shaded.

Artist - Kunisada II (1823 - 1880)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 5/8" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached the seams. A few faint stains in lower region of subject. Light soiling and spotting in subject with some minor fading along lower edge. A couple small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.