Comments - Great kabuki scene from a play about the sumo wrestler Tetsugatake. Facing a young rival named Inagawa, who is in need of money to ransom a courtesan for his patron, the experienced Tetsugatake suggests that if Inagawa purposely loses the match to him, he will give him the needed funds. At right, Tetsugatake grimaces with rage as he raises his pipe above his head, ready to strike his fellow athlete. Inagawa scowls angrily, his arms firmly folded across his chest and tucked into his sleeves. Nakamura Shikan plays Tetsugatake. A bold design with large expressive figures, nicely detailed with fine line work in the hair and soft bokashi shading in the background.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 18 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. A few small wormholes, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.