Comments - Dramatic scene from the kabuki play "Ichi-no-tani Futaba Gunki" of the Minamoto warrior Kumagai Naozane confronting the young Taira Prince Atsumori, whom he captured during Atsumori's first battle. He grimaces at the youth, leaning forward as he grips his sword upright. Conflicted between killing his enemy, who was the same age as his own son, Naozane beheaded the youth, but became a monk to say prayers for him. Here, Atsumori looks up with a slightly fearful expression, clasping his hands in prayer as he awaits his fate. A poignant scene, with beautiful detail in the armor and weapons and the undulating sea beyond.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 3/4" x 19 3/8"

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Two separate panels. Thinning at edges, a few wormholes, repaired. Creasing throughout, rubbing. Please see photos for details.