First Horse Day - Wonderful triptych of actors gathering outside a main hall before a special performance of the New Year on the "First Horse" day of the second month. A falcon perches on the arm of the young man at left, while the beauty next to him is dressed as the Wisteria Maiden. At right, Benkei carries a bell and wears a monk's costume, while the red-faced demon in front of him has been vanquished by Aotake Goro, the character carrying a giant arrow. This image appears on page 173 of Bruce A. Coats's book "Chikanobu: Images of Modernity and Nostalgia." A fascinating scene, beautifully detailed with burnishing in the black kimono, the hat, and the obi.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight toning and soiling, a few small spots and creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.