Comments - Incredible scene from the kabuki play commonly known as "Sendai Hagi," based on the disputed succession of the Date Clan. The loyal nursemaid Masaoka has been charged with protecting young Tsuruchiyo, the heir to the clan, who is in danger of being poisoned. Masaoka has kept him in private quarters, asking her own son, Senmatsu, to taste his food. When Senmatsu becomes ill after eating poisoned sweets offered by the evil Yashio, the villainess quickly stabs him to hide her plot, claiming he must pay for his rude behavior. At right, the stoic Masaoka must watch as her own son dies, leaning forward with an anxious expression. At left, the evil magician Nikki Danjo reappears in human form in a cloud of smoke after stealing a valuable scroll as part of the plot. Nakamura Shikan IV appears as Nikki Danjo. The loyal warrior Otokonosuke crouches in the center, glaring at the magician. Attractively colored, with a wonderfully detailed setting.

Artist - Kunisada II (1823 - 1880)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 29 1/8" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached at the seams. Minor soiling and spotting in subject. Slight creasing and tearing along edges and corners. Faint stains near edges in center and left-hand panels. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.