Comments - Fantastic portrait of Ichikawa Ebizo (formerly Ichikawa Danjuro V) as Takemura Sadanoshin in the kabuki play "Koi Nyobo Somewake Tazuna." Sadanoshin was engaged by a nobleman as a Noh drama instructor, but he was dismissed over the misconduct of his daughter Shigenoi, who served as a lady's maid and wet-nurse. He takes the dishonor to his family so seriously that while giving his master final instruction in the famous Noh play "Dojoji," he commits suicide while hiding under the temple bell. He looks forward with a slightly anxious expression, his eyes wide and eyebrows raised, the open corner of his upraised lips showing the inside of his mouth. He clasps his hands nervously before him, as if about to make a great pronouncement. The colors of his robe and kamishimo contrast nicely with the distressed mica ground. A real Sharaku masterwork.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - 15 3/4" x 10" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail, as shown. Horizontal crease through print, some light rubbing of mica dust at corners. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.