Comments - Great illustration showing the young boy Kato Ishidomaru meeting his father, who has become the priest Karukaya Doshin. His father was Kato Sayemon Shigeuji, a daimyo of Kyushu who fled his station and title and became a priest to escape his jealous wife. His son searched for him, finally identifying him by a birthmark, but the man refused to admit his true identity. Doshin finally recognized his son, but made the boy promise to keep the truth from his mother. The young boy tugs on his father's robe, looking up at him with a pleading expression. The priest looks down at him with eyes wide and eyebrows raised, carrying a pail in one hand and a string of prayer beads in the other. Sawamura Sojuro V portrays Doshin and Sawamura Genpei II performs the role of the son. The figure at left is Yoji the jeweler, also portrayed by Sawamura Sojuro V. A moving scene from the popular kabuki play "Zoho Tsukushi no iezuto," with nice expressive figures.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 27 7/8"

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