Comments - Terrific kabuki portrait of Ichikawa Danjuro as the evil magician Nikki Danjo in the play "Date kurabe Okuni kabuki," who is able to transform himself into a rat. At right, Bando Takesaburo appears as the warrior Izutsu Menosuke. While in rat form, Danjo stole a valuable scroll, and Menosuke struck him on the head with a knife. After returning to his human shape, Danjo is still bleeding from the wound to his forehead, grimacing angrily as he looks over his shoulder at his attacker. He wears a dark gray kamishimo over a brown kimono, his long pants trailing beneath his feet and his hands tucked at his sides. A great image from this popular play, with expressive figures and soft shading in the background.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 19 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Two panels, not attached at the seams. A few small holes, repaired, blends well. A few small stains, slight soiling, slight rubbing near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.