Priest Ikkyu and the Hell Courtesan, 1884 - Fantastic scene depicting an encounter between the courtesan Jigoku Dayu, whose name literally means "Lady of Hell," and the Priest Ikkyu. He walked about each New Year carrying a skull to remind revelers of the inevitability of death. He enlightened the young courtesan as to the evils of her profession, and she became a convert to religious life. He stands solemnly at left, the grinning skull in his outstretched hand as the beauty eyes him soberly. She wears a fantastic outer kimono patterned with a demon and fiery scenes of hell, her under robe covered with skulls and bones. The deep blue screen behind her features an intricately drawn landscape of a shrine complex with a seated Buddha above. A beautifully detailed scene illustrating this famous tale.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 18 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two attached panels, backed with paper. Slight separation at end of vertical fold between panels, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases, stain. Please see photos for details.