Comments - Interesting kabuki scene from the play "Hime Komatsu Nenohi no Asobi," a drama about the exiled priest Shunkan who escapes his exile in order to guard the emperor's concubine, who is about to give birth to an heir. He enlists the help of a local midwife, Oyasu, who offers to swear an oath of loyalty on two hand mirrors in order to learn his secret. In the center, the warrior Ariomaru attacks Oyasu's husband Kameomaru, knocking him down with the flat of his blade. At right, the beauty reacts with alarm as she watches, while Shunkan grabs her wrist, a mirror still in her hand. He holds the other mirror out at his side, grimacing angrily, his long hair falling over his shoulders. Snow falls heavily, blanketing the countryside and the pine trees and blossoming plum framing the view at upper right. A lively scene with expressive figures and an attractive setting.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 28 1/4"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. A few thinning spots and holes, small losses at corners, repaired. A few creases and stains. Please see photos for details.