Comments - An incredible subject by Kunichika depicting a scene from the story of Minamoto no Yorimitsu (called Raiko) and the ground spider. Raiko fell ill with a fever and was having visions of demons. The last dream was of an earth spider, preparing to cast a web over him. He lashed out at it with his sword and immediately recovered. Here, the spider is visiting the ailing Raiko in the guise of a beauty. At left, Raiko reveals its true nature with a mirror, rays of light radiating across the room. At right, one of the samurai's retainers draws a sword concealed in the handle of a pilgrim's staff, ready to strike at the creature. A terrific dramatic image with the true form of the ground spider appearing in the background, its yellow eyes glowing, a web extending across the design. From left to right, the actors are Bando Hikosaburo V as Yorimitsu, Ichimura Kakitsu IV as Tsuchigumo, and Kawarazaki Gonjuro I as Kinmon Goro Munezo. This image appears on page 82 of Amy Reigle Newland's recent book, "Time Present and Time Past: Images of a Forgotten Master, Toyoharu Kunichika." An excellent choice for a collector, beautifully detailed.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

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

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached at the seams. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.