Comments - Handsome scene from the kabuki play "Sekitori Senryo Nobori" or "The Rise of the 1000 Ryo Wrestler." Kneeling in the center, the sumo wrestler Inagawa faces a dilemma because he needs money to finish ransoming a courtesan from a teahouse for his supporter. If he is unable to raise the funds, he will lose his honor and embarrass his patron. At right, his rival Tetsugadake holds up a sign for their match the following day, suggesting that if Inagawa purposely loses the match to him, he will give him the needed funds. Inagawa looks up with a worried scowl as his wife Otowa pushes aside the curtains in the doorway at left, watching with alarm. The actor Nakamura Fukusuke as appears as Tetsugatake. An interesting scene with expressive figures and a nicely detailed interior setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 29"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached at the seams and backed with thin paper. Faint vertical creasing running through subject with minor spotting throughout. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.