Comments - Interesting kabuki scene featuring the young thief and magician Jiraiya disguised as an otokodate or street knight. He stands at left looking back over his shoulder with a slight frown as he holds a baby to his chest beneath his striped blue and white kimono. The fellow at right grips a sword upright with both hands, grimacing angrily as he glares at Jiraiya. The fellow in the center reacts with a worried frown as he pushes up the sleeve of his red tie-dyed under robe. His kimono features a large butterfly pattern. A gray border of clouds separates the figures from a landscape with people strolling about and children playing. At top center, a woman in a striped vest flings a bamboo mat into the air, children dancing excitedly around her. At right, a monkey trainer watches from beneath a tree, his animal perched on his back. Ichikawa Danjuro VIII plays Jiraiya, and the actor at right is Ichikawa Ebizo V. A handsome design with large figures, nicely detailed with fine line work in the hair and bokashi shading in the background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 29 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - The print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Vertical fold near left edge of each panel. A few small holes, slight separation at ends of fold, repaired. Very slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.