Comments - Terrific kabuki scene of the outlaw Shirai Gompachi fending off an attacker, kneeling atop him as he twists the fellow's arm behind his back. On the run after killing his uncle, a gang decided to waylay him at Suza-ga-Mori when exiting his palanquin in hopes of obtaining the reward for his capture. With the help of the moon going behind the clouds, Gompachi was able to defeat the gang, much to the admiration of the street knight Banzui Chobei, whose own palanquin had just arrived at the site. Here, Chobei holds a candle a loft as he leans forward aggressively, closely watching the struggle. He is so impressed that he agrees to help Gompachi when they meet again in Edo. A large pine tree frames the night sky above the figures. A great image from this famous tale, with expressive figures and a nice natural setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 19 3/4" x 14 5/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two separate panels. A horizontal crease at center. Some staining and toning in subject. Some light rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.