Comments - Incredible kabuki triptych from the legendary tale of Lady Tamamo no mae, a beautiful palace lady-in-waiting. After the twelfth-century Emperor Toba fell in love with her, he became increasingly ill. His astrologer discovered that she was actually an evil nine-tailed fox, who had been causing the emperor's sickness. Here, the beauty's secret is revealed when a priest holds a mirror up to her, revealing a fox in the reflection. The astonished priest tumbles backwards in surprise as a procession of foxes appears in the ray of reflected light. The foxes wear gray kimono and carry a variety of tools and weapons, including hoes and rakes, bows and pole arms. The beauty's long flowing hair trails over her shoulders, a sorrowful expression on her face. A samurai kneels at left, gripping his bow with one hand and several arrows with the other. A fantastic supernatural subject with terrific detail and fine shading.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 29 1/8" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels. Loss at bottom left corner of left panel, a few small thinning spots and holes, repaired. Slight toning, creasing, and soiling, slight rubbing near edges. Please see photos for details.