Comments - Fascinating and rather bizarre kabuki scene showing the famous warrior Watonai fearlessly grabbing a tiger by the tail. The surprised animal stops in its tracks, turning its head to see what is happening. A frightened retainer holding a gun over his shoulder reacts with shock, throwing his hand up in the air. Above, a one-legged boy encased in an umbrella waves his arms at the hero as a Buddhist deity holding a lotus blossom drifts by on a cloud. A very curious and unusual image, with beautiful detail in the tiger's fur and soft shading in the background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 17 3/4" x 13 1/4"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two separate panels. Backed with old paper. Some toning and rubbing in subject as shown. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.