Comments - Handsome kabuki scene from the tale of the outlaw Shirai Gompachi, who was wanted for murder. A gang had been waiting to capture Gompachi for the reward, attacking him as he left his palanquin at Suza-ga-Mori near Edo. While fighting off his attackers, the famous otokodate or street knight Banzui Chobei arrived in his own palanquin. Watching the fight, he was impressed with the young rogue's swordsmanship, and letting him go free, promised they would meet again someday. At left, Chobei holds up a lantern to see Gompachi better, a curious grimace on his face. Gompachi stares back with a worried frown, uncertain about whether Chobei will turn him over to the authorities. A stone pillar frames the scene at with trees in silhouette against the dark night sky along the horizon. From left, the actors are Matsumoto Koshiro VI and Onoe Kikugoro III. Nice expressive figure with fine bokashi shading in the background.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 18 5/8"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. Some light spotting. Rubbing at bottom edge. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.