Comments - Great kabuki scene of two sworn enemies accidentally meeting each other one night in the Yoshiwara. The disgraced samurai Nagoya Sanza is surprised to encounter his sworn enemy, Fuwa Banzaemon, after their scabbards brush in passing. Sanza was banished from his clan after a valuable scroll in his care was stolen by the evil Banzaemon. In the center, Sanza stares over his shoulder with a determined frown, gripping his sword. He wears a blue kimono patterned with swallows flying in the rain. At right, Banzaemon grimaces angrily at his enemy, holding his weapon upright with both hands. His black kimono features a design of lightening bolts and swirling thunderclouds. At left, a courtesan carrying a lantern watches in surprise, throwing her hand out in alarm. Weeping cherry blossoms frame the sky overhead. Nice expressive figures.

Artist - Yoshitora (active circa 1840 - 1880)

Image Size - 14" x 29 1/8" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Small loss at corner, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.