The Cat Witch, 1880; Monk and Samurai - Intriguing double-sided print with a kabuki triptych by Chikanobu on each side. The front depicts an incredible scene from a famous tale about a cat witch. Having previously assumed the form of a beauty, here, the monster returns to its true form as a cat. She grimaces with rage as she looks up, large ears emerging from her flowing white hair and sharp claws protruding from the demon's claws. Behind her, a samurai draws his sword to battle the creature, while another warrior looks on angrily at left. At right, a young woman looks at the cat with a worried smile. Beautifully detailed with embossing in the white hair and a burnished pattern in the blue kimono at left. The reverse features a monk scowling at a beauty, with a ronin at left and a samurai at right. Includes a burnished geometric pattern in the black coat at right. Nice colorful prints in an unusual format.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28 1/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Six attached panels, backed with paper and mounted back to back. Slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.