Comments - Terrific five-panel kabuki print depicting the Soga Brothers confronting Suketsune, the murderer of their father, during a New Year's party, where they reveal their true identities to him. At left, the impetuous younger brother Goro frowns angrily as he sits atop a lacquer stool, his arms firmly folded across his chest. He wears a blue kamishimo with his trademark pattern of butterflies over a red under robe. Kneeling beside him, Juro urges him to remain calm, holding out his hand in a restraining motion. In the center, the strong man Asahina reacts with alarm, a worried expression on his face. He stretches out the sleeves of his crane patterned kimono, his red "monkey makeup" and flared sideburns adding to his imposing appearance. Suketsune glares unhappily at the brothers, while an elegant courtesan watches with a smile, wearing an impressive dragon print obi. Blossoming plum branches frame the scene overhead beneath a boldly checked blue and white awning. Detailed with fine bokashi shading along the bottom edge, and embossing in Suketsune's white kimono trim. A fantastic design from this classic tale, rare to find complete in five panels.

Artist - Yoshiiku (1833 - 1904)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 48 1/2"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Five panels, not attached the seams. A few worm holes in subject, repaired from reverse. Slight rubbing and soiling along edges with areas of spotting in subject. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.