Comments - Handsome kabuki print depicting the "Sushiya" scene from the classic play "Yoshitsune Sembon Zakura." At right, the Genji commander Kajiwara Kagetoki has come to a sushi shop in search of the Koremori, a Heike warrior, who has been hiding there. The son of the sushi shop owner, Igami no Gonta, has given him a sushi tub in which a severed head has been hidden, which his father Yazaemon is hoping to pass off as that of Koremori. After inspecting the head, Kagetoki confirms it as that of Koremori and gives Gonta a fine brocade robe. After the he leaves, Gonta unfolds the robe and a priest's robe that has been folded within it falls out, a hint from Kagetoki that he knows the head was not Koremori's, and suggesting that it would be safer for Gonta to become a priest. Here, Kagetoki stares at Gonta with a distraught expression, biting his lower lip. Gonta kneels at left, making a shape with his hands as he looks warily up at the visitor. The elegant robe rests in a lacquer tray before him, with the sushi tub on the floor nearby. Gonta's sister watches from upper left, smiling sweetly. An interesting scene from this popular play, with expressive figures and a nicely detailed setting.
Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Image Size - 13 7/8" x 19 1/2" + top margin as shown
Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels, partially backed with paper. A few holes, repairs. Slight soiling, a few creases and spots, wrinkling in right panel. Please see photos for details.
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