Comments - Fantastic kabuki scene from the play "Oichiza Soga no Shimadai." At right, the disgraced samurai Nagoya Sanza is dismayed to encounter his sworn enemy, Fuwa Banzaemon one night in the Yoshiwara after their scabbards brushed in passing. Sanza was banished from his clan after a valuable scroll in his care was stolen by the evil Banzaemon. In the center, Banzaemon frowns angrily as recognizes his foe, lifting his hat for a closer look as he grips the end of Sanza's scabbard. His black coat and green kimono feature a similar design of red lightening and swirling thunderclouds. At left, Sanza's loyal maid, Okuni, lifts her lantern high, her eyes wide. A low bamboo fence runs across the background, with blossoming cherry trees framing the pale blue sky. From left, the actors are Iwai Hanshiro V as Tsukisayo Okuni, Ichikawa Danjuro VII as Fuwa Banzaemon, and Onoe Kikugoro III as Nagoya Sanza. A great design with expressive figures and beautiful color, also in the collection of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 15" x 31" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Several wormholes, repaired with backing. Slight soiling. A few small stains. Please see photos for details.