47 Ronin, Act 1, circa 1830s - Lovely image from a series pairing beauties with scenes from the kabuki drama about the 47 ronin, "Kanadehon Chushingura." The young woman carries a lacquer tray covered with a red cloth depicting the "takaramono" or precious things, lucky objects including sacred jewels and a straw raincoat that allows the wearer to fly. She smiles as she looks down over her shoulder at a traditional display for the New Year holiday that includes large stacked mochi or rice cakes topped with a bitter orange, a lobster, and greenery. Her kimono is patterned with decorated fans and plum blossoms, tied with a striped obi. A border of yellow clouds separates the beauty from an illustration from Act 1 of the play, with Lady Kaoyo presenting a helmet for identification to Lord Moronao and Lord Wakasanosuke at Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine. A beautifully drawn and detailed design from the rarely seen series, also in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 3/4" x 10 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Slight soiling, a few spots and creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.