Comments - Terrific kabuki scene from "Shiranui monogatari" at the Kawarazaki Theater, a tale about Otomo's daughter Princess Wakana, who practiced spider magic. She appears at left, smiling sweetly as she looks up, a brocade sash in her hand. The three samurai beside her each look in a different direction, gripping their swords as they await the appearance of the giant spider whose enormous web stretches across the dark background. At right, the samurai Genkai Nadaemon holds his weapon upright over his shoulder, a worried expression on his face. He wears a black kimono with dragon motifs over a suit of armor trimmed with black fur cuffs. At bottom center, Washizu Rokuro frowns unhappily as he turns his head to the side. His robe features flying cranes and swirling clouds. Above him, Shichiro looks up with a scowl, ready to spring into action. From left, the actors are Bando Shuka I, Bando Takesaburo I as Shichiro, Arashi Rikaku II as Washizu Rokuro, and Arashi Rikan III as Genkai Nadaemon. A fantastic supernatural design with large expressive figures. Detailed with faint embossing on the white kimono trim, the cords tied around the samurai's topknots, and the cranes' feathers. A great design.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 29 5/8"

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical folds, creasing throughout, a couple small rubbed spots. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.