Matsuomaru Preparing to Identify His Son's Head

by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Current Status

Matsuomaru Preparing to Identify His Son's Head by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Original Kunichika (1835 - 1900) Japanese Woodblock Print
Matsuomaru Preparing to Identify His Son's Head

Comments - Dramatic illustration of the "Village School" scene from the popular kabuki play "Sugawara Denju Tenerai Kagami" showing the samurai Matsuomaru preparing to identify the decapitated head of his only son. Matsuomaru and his wife had agreed to secretly substitute their son, Kotaro, to be killed in place of the son of his former master, to repay a debt of gratitude. Here, Matsuomaru glares angrily at the schoolmaster at left, who is in on the secret and worries that Matsuomaru will betray himself. The warrior wears his trademark robe patterned with snow-covered pines, his bushy hair forming a wild halo above his head, resting his hands atop the cylindrical box which holds the head. At right, an elderly warrior who has come to verify that the killing has taken place watches him closely. A bold design with large expressive figures. Includes extensive burnishing on the black kimono and court cap at right, a burnished geometric pattern on the black areas of Matsuomaru's kimono, and embossing on the elderly man's white hair.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few creases at edges and small marks. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Matsuomaru Preparing to Identify His Son's Head by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)
Matsuomaru Preparing to Identify His Son's Head by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

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