Comments - Fantastic depiction the Imperial inspection of the yokozuna or sumo grand champion Umegatani Totaro I. He earned his ranking of yokozuna in February 1884, and the Meiji Emperor attended one of his matches on March 10, 1884, which increased Totaro's fame. He is shown during the ring entering ceremony wearing a special belt that opens into a fringed apron in the front, stamping one foot with one arm out beside him. His two attendants kneel beside him wearing matching aprons, one bearing his sword, while the referee crouches at left holding a fan. The wrestlers are rendered in a very realistic style, with shading to indicate the depth and roundness of the figures. A great, historic subject, enlivened by a red and white striped border. A great choice for a sumo enthusiast. We've never come across this design before.

Artist - Meiji era artist (not read)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 26 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Stitching holes along one side of each panel from previous binding, a few losses, repaired. Slight soiling, light ink offsetting. Please see photos for details. Good overall.