Comments - Dramatic scene from the popular kabuki play "Sugawara Denju Tenerai Kagami" showing the samurai Matsuomaru reacting with shock as he sees the decapitated head of his only son. He reacts with horror as he peers into the cylindrical wooden container to identify the head. Matsuomaru and his wife had agreed to substitute their son, Kotaro, for the son of his former master, to repay a debt of gratitude, but the sight distresses Matsuomaru terribly, who flings up his hands, his mouth agape. He wears his trademark robe patterned with snow-covered pines, his bushy hair forming a wild halo above his head. At right, an elderly warrior watching him closely, while at left, another man looks up with an angry frown. A bold design with large expressive figures. Includes burnishing on the black kimono and court cap at right, and embossing on the white kimono trim, the fan, and the warrior's white hair and beard.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Small thinning spot, repaired. Slight toning, a few creases and small marks. Please see photos for details. Good overall.