Comments - Dramatic scene from the kabuki play "Shinmei megumi wago torikumi," which was based on a real fight between firefighters (megumi) and sumo wrestlers at Shinmei Shrine in 1805. At left, a firefighter pushes up the pole of a palanquin with an angry grimace, tilting the conveyance upwards, while at right, a sumo wrestler grabs hold of the other end of the pole, glaring at the samurai in the center. The warrior flings his hand up above his head as he scowls at the wrestler. A beauty caught between the men reacts with alarm, her lantern swinging with her movement. At upper right, boats are anchored near the shore for the evening, signs and willow branches frame the night sky at upper left. A lively image with expressive figures and an attractive setting, detailed with burnishing on the samurai's kimono and black collars, the beauty's black collar, and the black trim on the palanquin. The first time we've seen this design.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 14" x 28 1/8" + margins as shown

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