Comments - Incredible Kuniyoshi scene from the story of Minamoto no Yorimitsu (called Raiko) and the tsuchigumo or earth spider. Raiko fell ill with a fever and dreamed of an earth spider preparing to cast a web over him. He struck at it with his sword and immediately recovered from his fever. Here, the feeble Raiko lies on his bed, jabbing at the giant creature with his blade. His loyal retainers are at his side, one reaching for his sword at right and the other thrusting a lantern aloft to illuminate the supernatural creature, its eyes glowing. At left, two other retainers vanquish a long-necked demon, one crushing its three-eyed head beneath an overturned go board, and his fellow samurai grabbing the creature's neck. The enormous spider glares down at the samurai from a heavy web extending across the dark room. A fantastic illustration of this legendary event. A rare Kuniyoshi triptych of a highly desirable subject.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 5/8" x 29 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Losses at corners, a few small holes and thinning spots, expertly repaired. Toning, slight soiling and rubbing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.