Comments - Handsome kabuki illustration from the play commonly known as "Kirare Yosa." It tells the story of the dissolute young Yosaburo, who was captured during a tryst with a gang boss's mistress, Otomi, and slashed all over. After turning to a life of petty crime, the scarred young man is eventually reunited with his true love, Otomi, while trying to blackmail her with his fellow criminal, Yasu the Bat. At right, Otomi looks down, smiling to herself with happiness. In the center, her brother Tazaemon frowns sternly at the pair of rogues. Yosaburo looks up at him with a frown, scars visible on his face and chest, while Yasu the Bat (nicknamed for the bat tattoo on his face), grimaces angrily while cradling a paper full of money in his hand. Nice large figures with wonderfully expressive faces and finely detailed hair, set against a dark night sky.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 28 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three attached panels. A few holes, repaired. Slight creasing and soiling, a few small marks. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details. Good overall.