Comments - Terrific kabuki scene of a couple paying a visit to the nobleman Kusunoki Masayuki, who sits on a verandah at right, looking up with a scowl from the book he is reading. Both are actually magic foxes in disguise as Matagoro at left, and the Princess Chieda. The beauty grins coyly at the nobleman, tilting her head as she pats her hair. Masayuki wears an elegant red outer robe patterned with cranes in flight and clouds, with a pleated green collar. Cherry blossoms frame scene overhead, with what looks like snow falling against the night sky. From left, the actors are Nakamura Shikan IV, Sawamura Tossho II, Bando Hikosaburo V. Great large, expressive figures, with lively color and an interesting setting. Includes embossing in the white kimono collar and burnishing in the black reading stand.

A near pristine triptych, virtually perfectly preserved as though it was printed yesterday. Beautiful color, fine untouched paper, three separate sheets, never attached, never framed. Truly a rare find in this condition for the discerning collector.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 28 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. One small hole, repaired, blends well. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.