Series; New Versions of Figures on the Stage
Bando Hikosaburo VII as Benkei, circa 1952 - Terrific kabuki portrait of Bando Hikosaburo VII as Benkei in the play "Hashi Benkei," the tale of Benkei's legendary battle on Gojo Bridge with the young Ushiwakamaru, the future Yoshitsune. He stares ahead intently as he sizes up his enemy, an angry frown on his faces. He wears a beautiful monk's headdress with a design of a dragon and swirling clouds over a rich blue kimono with a bold pattern of gold Buddhist wheels. A fantastic design with beautiful color and fine bokashi shading in the face. We've seen this subject offered elsewhere for more than $1,500.
Signed - Shunsen with red artist's seal "Shunsen"
Publisher - Watanabe, with 6 mm seal within image at center right edge
Artist - Natori Shunsen (1886 - 1960)
Image Size - 14 3/4" x 9 3/4" + margins as shown
Condition - Excellent condition overall with no issues to report.