Comments - Handsome scene from the kabuki play "Dan no Ura Kabuto Gunki." The Genji commander Shigetada kidnapped the lovely courtesan Akoya, mistress of the warrior Taira Kagekiyo, hoping to force her to reveal his whereabouts after he escaped following the Battle of Dan-no-ura. The beauty kneels at left, looking up with a timid smile, dressed in a striking kimono patterned with a crane in flight and chrysanthemums. Shigetada stares at her solemnly as he holds his sword, while his retainer Iwanaga rages angrily, drawing his blade as he holds the weapon above his head. He wears a bold red and yellow kamishimo with a dragon print over a black kimono with a subtle burnished design, his red stage makeup and flared wig adding to his imposing appearance. From left, the actors are Nakamura Fukusuke IV as Akoya, Sawamura [?] as Hanzawa Rokuro, Kataoka Gado III as Hatakeyama Shigetada, and Nakamura Shikan as Iwanaga. A great design with the colorful figures set off by a deep red background.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 27 1/8" x 14"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Backed with old paper. Some light soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.