Comments - Dramatic night scene from a play at the Shintomiza or Shintomi Theater depicting two men fighting with swords while suspended in a basket ferry. The fellow at left grimaces angrily as he grips his sword with both hands. In the center, a wild-haired rogue raises his weapon above his head as he holds one of the ropes tied to the basket. He wears a black kimono with a beautiful burnished geometric pattern. At right, a beauty watches with a concerned expression, the end of her obi in her hand, while a samurai lifts his hat above his head for a better view. The actors include Ichikawa Danjuro at left, Ichikawa Sadanji in the center, and Nakamura Fukusuke as Sakyo's daughter Oteru at right. The metallic pigment on the full moon at upper right and the sword blade has oxidized to a dark tone. A bold design with large expressive figures and an intriguing setting.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight toning, offsetting from metallic pigment on moon. A few creases at edges. Please see photos for details.