Oniwakamaru and the Giant Carp, 1866 - Great kabuki scene featuring characters from different plays. At left, the young Oniwakamaru (the future warrior Benkei), lifts an enormous carp on his back. While studying at a temple, Oniwakamaru learned that a giant carp had eaten his mother when she fell into a pool at the foot of Bishamon Waterfall. He immediately left his studies and hunted down and killed the monster to avenge her death. Here, he stares up at the writhing fish as he clenches his knife between his teeth, waiting for the moment to strike. Above him, a magician stands in the rushing water, casting a magic spell with a gesture from his hands. At right, a beauty smiles serenely as she does penance under an icy rushing waterfall. She twists a blue cloth in her hands as she looks down, the water splashing off her shoulders. At right, the evil Matsunaga Daizen raises he sword with a determined expression, body tensed and ready to spring into action. He wears a beautiful red outer robe patterned with swirling clouds and stylized phoenixes over a gray print kimono, his hair pulled back into a low ponytail with longer locks hanging over his shoulders. A terrific image.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 18 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Two separate panels. Stitching holes at one side of each panel. Creasing throughout, a few spots. Please see photos for details.