Comments - Interesting kabuki scene from the tale of the Taira warrior Akushichibyoe Kagekiyo. After the Minamoto Clan defeated the Taira, Kagekiyo went into hiding. When her learned that the Shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo would be visiting Todanji Temple to inspect the reconstruction, Kagekiyo attempts to kill his enemy there. Here, Kagekiyo stands at left with his sword in one hand and the sleeve from Yorimoto's green robe in his other hand. He grimaces angrily as he glares up at the shogun, crouched and ready to spring. At right, the Princess Hitomaru attempts to intervene, leaning forward and throwing her arm out at her side. General Shigetada, the Minamoto commander overseeing the reconstruction watches from behind the beauty at right. A fine reed blind is rolled up overhead, and the figures are set off by a deep red background. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Shinzo V, Ichikawa Danjuro IX as Kagekiyo, Ichikawa Yaozo VII as Minamoto no Yoritomo, Ichikawa [?] II as Princess Hitomaru, and Ichikawa Gonjuro I as Shigetada. Nicely detailed with fine line work in the hair, and burnishing in the black court caps.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 3/4" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels. Small tear at bottom edge, repaired. Slight creasing and soiling, small stain in left panel. Please see photos for details.