Nakamura Utaemon IV as Nuregami Chogoro and Ichikawa Ebizo V as Hanaregoma Chokichi, 1856 - Terrific kabuki scene from a play about two sumo wrestlers called "Futatsu chocho kuruwa nikki," featuring the actors Nakamura Fukusuke I and Ichikawa Ebizo V. The older, more experienced sumo Nuregami Chogoro purposely lost a match to the young Hanaregoma Chokichi in hopes of earning a favor from his patron. Here the two wrestlers argue near a stockpile of straw-wrapped bales of rice. Chokichi leans forward with a frown, his hands clasped behind his back and feet spread wide. The angry Chogoro bends forward aggressively, tucking up his kimono at the back of his waist, scowling. Under their kimono, both wear fringed ceremonial aprons, and their swords rest on the ground nearby. Great expressive figures in this handsome design.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few small wormholes and holes, repaired. Slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.