Ejiri and Fuchu: Ichikawa Shinsho as Nikki Danjo and Kawarazaki Gonjuro I as Otokonosuke, 1857 - Great kabuki double portrait from a series pairing actors with two stations along the Tokaido Road. This print features Ichikawa Shinsho as the evil magician Nikki Danjo and Kawarazaki Gonjuro I as the loyal samurai Arajishi Otokonosuke in a play about the contested succession of the Date clan. Danjo had transformed himself into a giant rat in order to steal an incriminating scroll, catching the attention of Otokonosuke, who was guarding the Date heir. Danjo appears at left as he returns to human form, his hands clasped together in a magical gesture and the scroll in his mouth. The samurai glares up at him furiously, a short sword in his hand. He wears a boldly patterned plaid kimono over a red under robe, his red stage makeup and bushy hair adding to his fierce appearance. Beautifully detailed with embossing and burnishing in the plaid kimono, and fine bokashi shading in the night sky. A handsome design.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 9 1/2" + left margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight separation at ends of vertical centerfold, repaired. Very slight soiling, a few light creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.