Comments - Handsome scene from the kabuki play Sukeroku Yukari no Edo Zakura, a drama about the otokodate or street knight Sukeroku, who is actually one of the famous Soga brothers in disguise. Sukeroku is in love with the beautiful courtesan Agemaki, but the elderly samurai Ikyu rivals him for her affection. In the center, Sukeroku grimaces angrily as he sits on a bench covered with a red cloth, one sandal kicked off and his leg tucked up before him. He holds several long pipes in his hand. At right, the white-haired Ikyu stares at him with an angry grimace, his white hair falling over his shoulders. Three elegantly dressed courtesans stand behind them, the beauty at left wearing a striking obi with a carp leaping up a waterfall. The white sake seller kneels below, a fan in his hand. A great design with expressive figures and wonderful detail, including light embossing on the white hair and beard.

Artist - Yoshitsuya (1822 - 1866)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28 3/4"

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three separate panels. Thinning area, a few holes, repaired. A few creases, a couple small rubbed spots. Please see photos for details.