Comments - Handsome kabuki scene from the play "Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami." In the "Village School" scene, the samurai Matsuomaru has been ordered by his Lord Shihei to ensure that his former master Sugawara's son, Kan Shusai, is killed at his village school. At the last moment, Matsuomaru and his decide to substitute their son Kotaro to repay a debt of gratitude to Sugawara and save his son. At left, the samurai looks down at his child with a distraught expression, perhaps seeing the boy alive for the last time. His matching black coat and kimono feature stylized matsu or pine branches, a reference to his name. Tonami, the wife of the school teacher Genzo, kneels in the classroom at right, a stack of desks behind her. From left, the actors are Ichimura Uzaemon XII as Matsuomaru and Arashi Kamenojo II as Tonami. A poignant image from this popular drama.

Artist - Sadatora (active circa 1818 - 1844)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 20 1/8"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Two separate panels. A few holes, small tear at side, repaired. A few creases, rubbing along vertical fold at side, curling. Please see photos for details.