Comments - Unusual kabuki triptych depicting Nakamura Fukusuke I as the samurai Asahina Kobayashi, flying a yakko-dako or man kite played by Ichikawa Ichizo III. The yakko-dako wears the distinctive clothing of a yakko or low ranking servant, a kimono with a striped collar and a diamond crest on the shoulders. He hangs in the air, his sleeves extended like wings, looking down with a frown. Asahina watches the kite carefully, holding the string with both hands, a spool on the ground near his feet. He wears a black kimono bordered with blossoming plum branches, and he has a traditional "monkey makeup" associated with the role. A young couple watches from a bench at lower left, the samurai staring wide-eyed in alarm at Asahina, while the beauty grins as she looks up, holding her companion's sword. A handsome image in a fascinating format. We've never come across all three panels together before.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 26 3/4" x 19 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Stitching holes at one side of each panel from previous binding, repaired. Soiling, a few creases, rubbing at edges, stain. Please see photos for details. Good overall.