Comments - Amazing, complete five-panel woodblock showing a group of kabuki actors in character, each carefully identified with a name cartouche and a banzuke or list of titles across the top. This incredible design features 54 actors in major roles, corresponding with the Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido Road. In the second panel, the Cat Witch of Okabe appears at top center, her ears sticking up above her gray fur and her paw clutching a brush. At bottom center of the third panel, a wild-haired warrior wearing a feather patterned robe over his armor reads a sign held by fellow samurai, whose kimono is covered with Buddhist prayer wheels. In the far right panel, a man draws his sword from its sheath high above his head, scowling with anger, the sleeves of his blue tie-dyed kimono tied back with rope. A terrific design with expressive faces and a wealth of detail. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has this image in its collection. A wonderful choice for a kabuki collector.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900) and Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 46 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Five panels, attached at the seams. Small losses at upper right corners of three panel, repaired. Slight creasing and soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.