Comments - Fantastic kabuki triptych of a scene from the play "The Snow Bound Barrier of Love." Ichikawa Danjuro IX portrays the barrier guard Sekibei, who attempts to chop down a cherry tree while drunk. Just as he is about the strike, the spirit of the cherry tree appears in the form of the lovely courtesan Sumizome, played by Onoe Kikugoro V. She appears surrounded by a gray cloud in front of the tree, her pale lavender kimono patterned with pink cherry blossoms. The stunned Sekibei recoils, still grasping the ax with one hand. The delicate cherry blossoms framing the scene contrast beautifully with the bold patterning and color of Sekibei's robes. A terrific design that appears on page of 146 of Amy Reigle Newland's recent book, "Time Present and Time Past: Images of a Forgotten Master, Toyoharu Kunichika." A great subject for a Kunichika collector or a kabuki enthusiast.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 27 7/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, attached at the seams. One small hole, repaired. Paper remnants on reverse at edges from previous mounting. Slight creasing and soiling, faint pink stain at bottom left edge. Please see photos for details. Good overall.