Comments - Dramatic kabuki scene of two men on a sinking ship. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Danjuro IX as Tatsuo Kondo and Ichikawa Sadanji I as Mikura Tomizo. Kondo wraps one arm and one leg around the mast at left, clinging to the rigging as waves crash over the ship. At right, Tomizo tumbles backwards with an alarmed expression grabbing hold of a rope as he loses his balance. His striped kimono hangs open at the chest, revealing a button front shirt. A full moon glows low above the horizon in the night sky above the undulating sea. A great example of a "zangirimono" or "cropped hair play," referring to Meiji era kabuki plays with contemporary characters featuring modern, closely-cropped hairstyles. A terrific design.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, not attached at the seams and backed with thin paper. Lightly toned in subject with one considerable stain in center panel. A few small holes and tears in subject and along edges, repaired from reverse. Very faint spotting and soiling in subject. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.