Comments - Fantastic scene from the kabuki play "Meibuku Sendai Hagi" showing the wicked magician Nikki Danjo, who had transformed himself into a giant rat in order to steal a scroll. Danjo traditionally dresses in a pale gray kimono similar to the color of a rat, and he stands at left with his hand in the air, the scroll caught between his teeth, bleeding from a cut to his forehead as he returns to his true form. The faithful samurai Otokonosuke glares at Danjo, clutching the knife with which he inflicted a cut on him while in rat form. At right, the loyal nursemaid Masaoka watches in surprise, holding a lantern aloft as she leans forward anxiously. The actors are Nakamura Shikan as Nikki Danjo, Kawarazaki Gonjuro as Otokonosuke, and Iwai Kumesaburo as Masaoka. A terrific image from this famous tale with fine detail in the hairstyles and soft shading in the night sky.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 29 1/4" x 14 1/4" + margins as shown.

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