The 47 Ronin, Act 3: The Rear Gate 1854 - Handsome illustration from Act 3 of the "Kanadehon Chushingura," the classic kabuki drama about the 47 ronin. Here, Lord Hangan's retainer Hayano Kampei looks over his shoulder with a frown as he and his sweetheart, the beauty Koshimoto Okaru stand outside the rear gate of the palace. After realizing that he had been unable to prevent his master's quarrel with Moronao because he was spending time with Okaru, he decides to elope with the beauty. She tilts her head coyly and smiles at him as they stand alongside the moat, but he pays her no attention. At right, Moronao's retainer Sagisaka Bannai claps his hands over his ears and stares at Kampei with a worried expression. From left, the actors are Iwai Kumesaburo III, Kataoka Gado II, Nakamura Tsuruzo I. An interesting scene with a nicely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight paper remnants on reverse at top edge from previous mounting. Slight creasing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.