Comments - Attractive kabuki scene of a young nobleman enjoying the company of a group of women. He kneels on a cushion in the center, grinning down at the beauties below as he leans against a lacquer armrest. At bottom center, a woman bows her head deeply as she presents him with a sake cup on an offering tray. At bottom right, one beauty turns away shyly as her companion smiles back at the noble. Above them, an attendant writes a letter with a brush, scowling unhappily. At far left, a matron hides behind her black kimono sleeve as she attempts to pass a letter to another seated man. Folding screens patterned with blossoming cherry trees and colorful maple leaves line the back of the room. The actors in the left panel are Kawarazaki Gonjuro I, Iwai Kumesaburo III, Nakamura Kamenojo I, and Nakamura Tsuruzo I. The actors in the center panel are Nakamura Fukusuke I, Sawamura Tanosuke III, and Onoe Kikugoro IV. The actors in the right panel are Ichikawa Ichizo III, Onoe Kikujiro II, and Ichikawa Shinsha I. An interesting image detailed with burnishing in the black kimono and embossing in the white kimono trim.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 29 7/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached at the seams. Lightly toned throughout with remnants from previous backing on reverse. A few small holes throughout with one vertical separation in center panel, all repaired from reverse. Faint soiling and wrinkling in subject with some minor stains along bottom edge. Please see photos for details. Good overall.