Comments - Fantastic kabuki group portrait of tattooed otokodate or street knights in a wild fight. In the center, a rogue with a dragon tattoo raises a large knife high above his head as he grabs his enemy by the elbow. His intended victim stares back at him with wide eyes, one arm thrust out at his side. His upper body tattoo depicts a lion and peonies. At lower right, two young men clash bladed, while the pair above them frowns at each other. The four rogues at left seem to be a mass of tangled, arms and swords. Notice that two men have tengu or winged spirits tattooed on their shoulders. A lively scene with expressive faces and terrific detail in the tattoos. From right to left, the actors are Nakamura Fukusuke, Iwai Shijaku, Sawamura Tanosuke, Ichikawa Kuzo, Ichimura Kakitsu, Kawarazaki Gonjuro, Bando Hikosaburo, Ichikawa Sadanji, Sawamura Tossho, and Nakamura Shikan. A great design, also in the collection of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 26 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Large losses at corners, a few holes, repaired. Slight soiling and rubbing, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.