Comments - Great scene from the popular kabuki dance-drama commonly known as "Dojoji." At left, Onoe Eizaburo V portrays a shirabyoshi dancer named Hanako who comes to Dojoji Temple hoping to dance before the new temple bell. No women have been allowed at the temple since the death of the monk Anchin at the hands of the beauty Kiyohime. Unaware that the beauty is actually the spirit of Kiyohime, the monks allow her to perform, and are soon overcome with strange sensations. She looks solemnly up at the bell as she dances, gracefully waving a fan. Her red kimono is patterned with cherry blossoms and flowing streams, and she wears a tall court cap. At right, Ichimura Kakitsu VI plays her fellow dancer, Sakuragi. Blossoming cherry branches frame the bell against a yellow sky.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 27 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with color and excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Horizontal centerfolds. A few tiny tears at edges. Slight toning, creasing, and soiling, a few small spots. Please see photos for details. Good overall.