Comments - Terrific kakemono or vertical diptych featuring a scene from the kabuki play popularly known as "Gosan no Kiri." Here, the famous thief Ishikawa Goemon stands on the verandah of the lower gate at Nazenji Temple, one foot perched atop the railing as he clutches a white cloth in his hand. It bears a last message written in blood to Goemon from his real father, who was forced to commit suicide and whom Goemon never knew. At this moment he realizes that he must avenge his father's death. Below, his wife Oritsu, who is making a religious pilgrimage, kneels inside the gateway, lifting her hat with one hand and smiling as she looks up. She wears a white pilgrim's vest and has a string of prayer slips around her neck, a water dipper in her other hand. The actors are Ichikawa Ebizo V as Goemon and Iwai Kumesaburo III as Oritsu. Beautifully colored and detailed, with a bold burnished pattern in Goemon's black kimono. A great image from this famous drama, in an unusual vertical format.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 28 1/2" x 9 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. A few small holes, repaired. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.