Comments - Interesting depiction of Ichikawa Ebizo V on the occasion of a visit from his son, Ichikawa Danjuro VIIII, in 1849. Formerly Ichikawa Danjuro VII, Ebizo had been banished from Edo in 1842 for his luxurious lifestyle as part of the Tempo reforms, and was living in Kamigata. He sits on a cushion, scowling unhappily as he reaches into a tobacco pouch to fill his pipe. He wears a dark gray kimono patterned with stylized shrimp. A wooden container at his side contains a tobacco set and several letters, the handle decorated with miniature gourds. Just below him, Ichikawa Saruzo I bows respectfully, a set of graduated sake cups on a lacquer offering tray before him. The softly shaded green border above is edged with gourds. An intriguing subject, nicely detailed.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 3/8" x 9 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. A couple small holes, thinning and a couple small tears at edges, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.