Comments - Handsome scene from the kabuki play "Koi Moyo Furisode Meoto," a tale about the young beauty Yaoya Oshichi, the daughter of a vegetable store owner. Based on a true story, Oshichi sought shelter in a temple after a fire and fell in love with the priest there. The next year she set fire to her own home in a desperate bid to see him again. The resulting massive fire burned a large section of Edo, and she was arrested and burned alive for her crime. Here, the beauty is shown inside the shop kneeling at right, grinning over her shoulder at her companion, the maid Osugi, who is going to answer the door. A man stands outside the door hold carrying a kokyo, an instrument similar to a shamisen, but played upright with a bow. He frowns as he waits, turning his head to the side The back of the shop is lived with shelves piled with containers and bins of vegetables. Fujikawa Kayu II appears as Gejo Osugi, and Bando Shuka I plays Yaoya Oshichi. An interesting design with wonderful detail in the interior setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 28 1/2" x 14 1/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some rubbing and soiling at edges. A couple creases in subject as shown. Some small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.