Comments - Great kabuki scene from the play "Ise Ondo Koi no Netaba" of a confrontation taking place in the Yoshiwara between the courtesan Okon and the samurai Fukuoka Mitsugi. At right, a man holds back Mitsugi, who has been possessed by the bloodthirsty blade of the sword he is holding, which, unbeknownst to him, is actually the clan heirloom he has been searching for. He grips the sword in his hand with a solemn expression as his sweetheart, Okon waves the certificate proving the identity of the famous weapon. Having already killed several people while under the curse, Mitsugi wants to kill himself, but Okon convinces him to restore the blade to its rightful owner. She waves the long letter with a gleeful smile as the teahouse cook stands behind her. In the background, beauties can be seen in silhouette on the shoji windows of the teahouse, with red paper lanterns hanging from the eaves. Ichikawa Danjuru VIII appears as Fukuoka Mitsugi and Iwai Kumesaburo III plays Okon. A terrific design with large, well-detailed characters, and a handsome setting. Includes burnishing in Okon's black kimono collar and fine bokashi shading in the sky.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 19 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. A few small holes, slight thinning, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.