Comments - Terrific kabuki scene of a warrior reacting with surprise as a vagrant emerges from the water onto the shore at right. The warrior bites his lower as he stares at the man, his sword upright. The sleeves of his dragon print outer robe have been pushed down to the waist, revealing a red floral kimono worn over armor trimmed with swinging fringe. At left, a samurai kneels with his weapon in hand, a small country shrine behind him. The name cartouche for the man at right describes him as "hinin," the lowest class during the Edo era, which included vagrants, ex-convicts, and other undesirables. Tall tree trunks frame a view of the night sky beyond. An intriguing subject, beautifully colored and detailed.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 29 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Tiny loss at corner, a couple small holes, repaired. Slight paper remnant at top edge, a couple small marks. Please see photos for details. Good overall.