Comments - Dramatic kabuki scene of firemen battling sumo wrestlers a fight at the Shinmei Shrine in Shiba in 1805 following a fundraising sumo match held there. At left, the tattooed fireman Megumi Tatsugoro raises his axe above his head with both hands, grimacing as he prepares to attack the man in the center, who grabs a ladder for his defense. He scowls back at his adversary, his long hair flowing over his shoulders, his belly hanging out from his loosely wrapped red kimono. A sumo wrestler behind him lifts a panel above his head as broken roof tiles fly through the air. At right, the sumo wrestler Yotsuguruma Daihachi grips a wooden pole as a club, a furious expression on his face. At upper left, three firemen are perched atop a roof, slipping on the sliding tiles, each dressed in a matching quilted robe. A torii gate and wooden tower are visible at center. The actors include Onoe Kikugoro V as Megumi Tasugoro and Nakamura Shikan IV Yotsuguruma Daihachi. An intriguing and action-filled subject with great expressive figures.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 27 3/4"

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