Comments - Terrific kabuki scene from the play "Chigiru Koi Haru no Awa Mochi" of two men pounding rice to make mochi cakes while a third watches. The man in the center holds a large blob of dough in his outstretched hand, while the other skips around the mortar between them, carrying a heavy wooden mallet over his shoulder. Both men are similarly dressed, wearing blue outer kimono patterned with colorful festival decorations for the New Year. At right, a commoner dressed in a geometric print kimono over black leggings carries a stack of boxes tied with rope. He frowns slightly as he watches the men at work. Curtains bordered with flowers trim the stand and the stall behind the workers, with benches along each side. From left, the actors are Ichimura Uzaemon XIII, Nakamura Shikan IV, and Kawarasaki Gonjuro. An attractive design, beautifully color and nicely detailed.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 3/8" x 29 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight paper remnants on reverse at top corners from previous mounting. Horizontal folds. Small repair, creasing. Please see photos for details.