Comments - Intriguing kabuki scene from the play "Gotaiheiki Date no Masukata." From left, the actors are Ichikawa Kuzo II as the fox Tsukamoto, Bando Shuka as the fox Chieda, Arashi Kichisaburo III as Uji Heinosuke, and Ichikawa Danjuro VIII as Tatsunami Goro. In the center, the fox beauty Chieda holds a sacred jewel in her outstretched hand, rays of light radiating from it across the night sky. She turns away from the angry monk behind her, who grimaces at her as he grips a traditional pilgrim's staff called a shakujou. At left, the fox Tsukamoto leads high in the air, crouching in a fox-like position. At right, the warrior Tatsunami Goro draws back an enormous axe with red flames painted on the blade. He wears a boldly patterned robe trimmed with swinging fringe and tied with a heavy black obi, his red stage makeup adding to his fierce appearance. A fascinating supernatural subject, with an atmospheric night setting and soft bokashi shading in the background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/2" x 30 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight thinning at left corners of left panel, repaired. Very slight soiling, a few faint wrinkles, very slight paper remnants along left edge of left panel. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.