Comments - Terrific image of the otokodate or street knight Ume no Yoshibei about to rob a young man named Chokichi. The thief is instantly recognizable by the distinctive outer kimono he wears, which features white herons symbolizing innocence and black crows denoting bad luck. After the shop apprentice Chokichi saves him from robbers one night, he in turn kills Chokichi for his money, unaware that he has just murdered his own brother-in-law. Here, he grabs hold of the drawstring on Chokichi's money bag, his sword hidden behind his back. The startled Chokichi falls to his knee, trying to keep hold of his purse. Ichikawa Monnosuke III appears as Chokichi. A full moon glows behind dark streaks of clouds, the river below flowing swiftly. An intriguing subject with expressive figures.

Artist - Kuniyasu (1794 - 1832)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 19 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. Loss at bottom corner of right panel, a few smaller losses at edges, a few wormholes, repaired. Creasing, soiling, and rubbing. Please see photos for details.