Comments - Fantastic kabuki portrait of Onoe Kikugoro V as the thief Benten Kozo Kikunosuke attempting to fight off guards on the rooftop of Gokuraku-ji temple. After one of his fellow robbers gave him away, Benten Kozo was cornered by the police. Here, he grabs the pole arm of an attacker while another guard grasps him around the waist with his iron truncheon. Benten swings his sword, turning his head to the side with a determined frown, loose hair framing his face. At upper left, a full moon glows in the night sky, and the tile roof fills the rest of the background, creating a dramatic setting and adding graphic interest. A great, bold design, detailed with burnishing in Benten's black kimono and an embossed line along the side of his nose.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Light toning, offsetting a few small spots and creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.