Comments - Handsome kabuki double portrait of Ichikawa Danjuro VIII as Mukokizu no Yosa and Nakamura Tsuruzo I as Komori Yasu in the play "Yowa Nasake Ukina no Yokogushi." Yosa has been reduced to living as a petty criminal after being caught in a tryst with a gang boss's mistress and slashed all over. His partner in crime is the blackmailer Yasu the Bat, so named for the bat tattoo on his face. Here, Yasu demands his share of the money, holding out his hands and grimacing up at Yosa. The scarred young man stares back at him soberly as he takes a gold coin from the paper wrapping in his hand. His finely detailed plaid kimono is tucked up at the back for easier movement, and scars are visible on his face, chest, and legs. An interesting subject with expressive figures and handsome wood grain impression on the softly shaded background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 9 3/4"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Vertical fold at side. Small repair, a few creases, small stain. Please see photos for details.