Comments - Interesting scene from the kabuki play "Hatsu Dochu Sugoroku Soga" of a confrontation between two men. At right, the older Shizuma has enlisted the help of the swordsman Karaki Masaemon, seen at left, to avenge the death of his father. Here, an argument occurs between Masaemon and Kobe, his former fencing teacher who no longer recognizes him. Masaemon looks up with a worried, disappointed frown as Kobe leans forward, one hand resting atop the cloth traveling cover of his sword. The circular inset at upper left depicts Otani, the sister of Shizuma, who seems alarmed, her mouth slightly agape as she clutches her sleeves to her chest. From left, the actors are Kataoka Nizaemon VIII as Karaki Masaemon, Onoe Kikugoro IV as Otani (inset), Ichikawa Ebizo V as Yamada Kobe, and Onoe Baiko 4.5 as Wada Shizuma. Nice large figures with expressive faces. Includes fine bokashi shading and a dusting of mica across the top of the night sky.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 29 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Thinning at edges and in subject, a couple small holes, repaired. Toning, soiling, and rubbing, a few creases, ink stain. Please see photos for details. Good overall.