Comments - Terrific scene from a kabuki play featuring Seki Sanjuro III as the pirate Kezori Kuemon and Bando Hikosaburo V as the unfortunate Komatsuya Soshichi, who becomes mixed up in one of Kezori's smuggling plots. Here, the pirate has just tossed the hapless Shoshichi overboard after he accidentally witnessed the robber and his gang smuggling from a barge. Resplendent in an exotic robe patterned with dragons and swirling clouds, Kezori grips the wooden handle of a hatchet with one hand as Soshichi clings to the edge of a smaller boat, waves crashing around him. At right, Soshichi's sweetheart, the courtesan Hakata Kojoro, played by Iwai Kumesaburo III, cowers behind her kimono sleeves as she stands on deck, treasures piled behind her. A great image with wonderfully expressive faces, nicely colored and detailed, with touches of burnishing.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 3/4"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight soiling, very slight rubbing near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.