Comments - Fantastic triptych illustrating a scene from the kabuki play commonly known as "The Higashiyama Storybook," based on a true story. A local mayor named Asakura Togo (the real-life Kiuchi Sogoro) petitioned the shogun directly for tax relief for his town, bypassing the crooked governor Ashikaga Yoshimasa. Here, Asakura wades through a stream, waving his petition attached to a maple branch in an attempt to give it to members of the shogun's procession as they pass across the bridge above. Guards rush into the water, attacking Asakura with metal rods as Yoshimasa scowls down at him. A canopy of orange maple leaves frames the scene. The actors include Ichikawa Kodanji IV as Asakura Togo and Bando Hikosaburo IV as Ashikaga Yoshimasa. A fascinating scene from this popular drama, with lively detail.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/2" x 30" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical fold in left panel. A few small holes, thinning at corner, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.