Comments - Handsome kabuki scene from the play commonly known as "Kiichi Hogen," a drama about the retired warrior Kiichi Hogen and the disposition of his books of military strategy. Kiichi fought for the Heike, but his family had alliances to the Genji, so members of both clans are interested in obtaining his secrets. The young Ushiwakamaru (later Minamoto no Yoshitsune) of the Genji clan, has joined his household disguised as the servant Torazo to obtain the books. At left, Torazo looks up at his companion with a frown as he pushes up his sleeve. He wears a purple kimono bordered with cranes over a red under robe, both garments with the distinctive stripe collar identifying him as a yakko or footman. In the center, Princess Minazuru, who is in love with him, smiles cheerfully as she tugs on the collar of her red floral kimono. Her hair is adorned with a large cluster of blue flowers and many ribbons. At right, Kiichi Hogen grimaces angrily with a tight-lipped frown. Behind them, a shed with a checked roof shelters chrysanthemums, the full blooms supported with paper collars. From left, the actors are Sawamura Tossho II, Bando Mitsugoro VI, and Nakamura Shikan IV. An attractive, colorful design with nice large figures, detailed with embossing on the white hair and beard.

Artist - Kunisada II (1823 - 1880)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 3/4" + top margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, backed with paper, two panels attached. Slight soiling and rubbing, a few creases and stains, slight curling. Please see photos for details. Please see photos for details. Good overall.