Comments - Intriguing kabuki scene of Ashikaga Yorikane preparing to attack his lover, the courtesan Takao, aboard a pleasure boat. The nobleman fell in love with Takao to the point of neglecting his official duties, prompting some of his retainers to plot to overthrow him. After a servant convinces Takao that she should give Yorikane up for his own sake, he becomes enraged with Takao tries to break up with him. Here, Yorikane stares up at the full moon glowing overhead as he holds Takao by the hair, his sword in hand. The beauty kneels on the deck of the boat, turning her head away and gesturing with her hand. She wears an elegant tie-dyed red kimono bordered with a leaf print. The actors are Bando Hikosaburo V as Yorikane and Iwai Kumesaburo III as Takao. A handsome design from this famous tale, nicely detailed with fine bokashi shading in the night sky.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 19 1/4" x 14 1/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two panels attached at the seam. Backed with old paper. Some light staining at top edge. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.