Comments - Terrific okubi-e or large head kabuki portrait of the actor Bando Hikosaburo V as Jigoku Dayu, the Hell Courtesan, holding a fly whisk. The beauty converted to Buddhism after the priest Ikyu convinced her of her wicked ways. Here, she looks over her shoulder with slight frown, wearing layers of elegant kimono, the outer robe featuring a portrait of Emma-o, the lord of the underworld. She wears an elaborate headdress topped with three lotus blossom thrones holding sacred jewels. Beautifully printed with embossing on the blue and white collar and the white kimono trim, and the fly whisk.. A really striking design set off by the blue background.

Artist - Yoshitora (active circa 1840 - 1880)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 9" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A couple small holes, repaired. Slight toning, small paper inclusion. Please see photos for details.