Comments - Incredible kabuki scene 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 guard holds a mirror up to her, revealing a fox in the reflection. The astonished man 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 fantastic supernatural subject with terrific detail and fine shading.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 19 1/8" + margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels. Horizontal and vertical folds. A few small losses and tears at edges, a few wormholes, repaired. Toning, soiling, slight ink offsetting, a few creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.