Poem by Ki no Tsurayuki: Nakamura Nakazo I as Sekibei, 1852 - Great image of Nakamura Nakazo I as the gatekeeper Sekibei from the famous kabuki play "Love at the Snow-covered Barrier Gate." The villain looks to the side, his lips pressed tightly together and brows furrowed as he clutches an axe, alarmed by mysterious happenings when he attempts to chop down a cherry tree. His outer robe features a bold pattern of white symbols against deep green and rust, a rust colored cloth wrapped around his head. Blossoming cherry trees frame the night sky behind him. A handsome, expressive figure with nice graphic appeal.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 10" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight thinning at corner, a couple holes, repaired. Slight toning, a few creases and marks. Please see photos for details. Good overall.