Comments - Terrific kabuki from the play "Hana Butai Banjaku Soga" at the Nakamura Theater, a drama about the priest Seigen, whose desire for the Princess Sakura leads to tragedy. Here, Seigen pulls on the end of the beauty's obi as she cowers in terror, hiding behind her kimono sleeve. Seigen tumbles backwards on the ground, gripping a grave marker in his other hand, which is in turn grabbed by the servant Yodohei, who grimaces in alarm, a large trunk tied to his back with rope. A blossoming cherry tree frames the scene, the pink and white blossoms contrasting with the dark night sky. From left, the actors are Iwai Kumesaburo III, Kataoka Gado II, and Nakamura Shibajaku I. A great illustration from this famous tale, the subject of many kabuki plays. Nicely detailed with embossing on the white kimono trim.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

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

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three separate panels. Thinning at edge, a few holes, repaired. Wrinkling throughout. Please see photos for details.