Comments - Intriguing print featuring scenes from two different kabuki plays. The left side depicts characters from the popular play "Sugawara Denju Tenerai Kagami." To fulfill a debt of gratitude to his old sponsor, the warrior Omatsumaru substitutes his own son to be sacrificed in place of his sponsor's in the act known as "The Village School." Omatsu wears a black kimono patterned with snow-covered pine trees, gripping the scabbard of his sword with a sorrowful expression as he stares off into space, reacting with quiet despair to the loss of his son. At right, two sisters are reunited to avenge the death of their father. Here, the young woman Shinobu has traveled to Edo from her country home in search of her long-lost sister, who has become the beautiful courtesan Miyagino. After arriving at the Daikoku-ya brothel, she meets her sister and tells her the sad news that the samurai Shiga has killed their father, and the pair agree to immediately seek out the murderer. The proprietor Soroku overhears them, and thinking he will attempt to stop them, they try to kill him; however, he encourages them to be like the Soga Brothers and be patient. He stands between the women, thrusting a mirror out in his hand as the beauties react with surprise. A handsome design with expressive figures and vibrant color.

Artist - Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)

Image Size - 14" x 27 1/2"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, attached at the seams, backed with paper. Please see photos for details. Good overall.