The Five Elements: Earth: Nakamura Shikan IV as Danshichi Kurobei and Nakamura Tsuruzo I as Mikawaya Giheiji - Fantastic kabuki portrait of the otokodate or street knight Danshichi Kurobei in the midst of killing his father-in-law Mikawaya Giheiji during an argument. He strikes a pose to show off his dramatic full body tattoo featuring a dragon and swirling clouds above a tiger. The dying Geheiji grabs his attacker around the waist as he slips to the ground, bleeding from wounds to his head, shoulder, and arm, blood staining the blade of Danshichi's sword. From left, the actors are Nakakmura Tsusuzo I and Nakamura Shikan IV. The first time we've seen this terrific tattoo subject.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 9 1/2"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Losses and thinning at edges, wormholes throughout, repaired. Rubbing, creasing. Please see photos for details.