Comments - Handsome scene from the popular kabuki play commonly known as "Sukeroku," a tale about the young street knight, Sukeroku, who is actually one of the Soga Brothers in disguise. Here, the elderly samurai Ikyu draws his sword angrily after Sukeroku has rudely insulted him. Both men are rivals for the attentions of the beautiful courtesan Agemaki, who watches at left with a stern expression. Ikyu leans forward with a tight-lipped frown, wearing an impressive matching coat and kimono patterned with a dragon and red flames, his long white hair flowing over his shoulders. The street knight wears a simple black kimono over a red under robe, a purple sash tied rakishly around his forehead. Ichikawa Danjuro appears as Sukeroku and Nakamura Shikan plays Ikyu. A lively design with large figures and vibrant color, detailed with burnishing on the black kimono and embossing in the white hair and beard.

Artist - Kuniume (1866 - 1903)

Image Size - 14" x 27 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A creases at edges and small repairs, a few stains. Please see photos for details.