Sato Tadanobu and Shizuka Gozen, 1898 - Fantastic kabuki triptych of the young samurai Sato Tadanobu leaping down from a blossoming cherry tree in a scene from the play "Yoshitsune Sembon Zakura." He is actually a kitsune, a magical fox, disguised as Yoshitsune's retainer Tadanobu. Clutching a small hand drum, he jumps to escape the beauty Shizuka, who stands holding a sword in a black lacquer case, surprised at his sudden agility. Shizuka watches him over her shoulder from the verandah as he floats in mid-air, his long pants trailing behind him. Her elegant outer robe is delicately shaded from lavender to green and covered with cherry blossoms and swirling yellow waves. A beautiful image with expressive figures and a spare, atmospheric setting. Nicely detailed with embossing on the white kimono trim and the fox's white robe, and burnishing on the lacquer railing. Signed Yoshu with red Toshidama seal, as is the "Chronicle of the Dan-no-ura Helmet" triptych from the same series. A terrific Chikanobu illustration from one of the most popular kabuki plays of all time.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few creases at edges, a couple small marks. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.