Nagoya Sanza Opening a Lacquer Box, 1847 - 1852

by Yoshifuji (1828 - 1889)

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Nagoya Sanza Opening a Lacquer Box, 1847 - 1852 by Yoshifuji (1828 - 1889)

Original Yoshifuji (1828 - 1889) Japanese Woodblock Print
Nagoya Sanza Opening a Lacquer Box, 1847 - 1852

Comments - Intriguing kabuki depiction of the disgraced samurai Nagoya Sanza sitting at left, scowling as he looks down into the lacquer box he has just opened, which no longer contains the valuable scroll that was in his care, but a worthless sandal instead. Unknown to him, his enemy, Fuwa Banzaemon, who stands at right, has stolen the scroll and replaced it with the sandal, which Sanza has angrily thrown, the shoe landing on the ground at right. Banzaemon grips his sword as he watches Sanza, but the yakko or low-ranking servant kneeling beside him takes hold of his wrist to stop him from acting. Banzaemon wears a striking black kimono patterned with red lightning bolts and bands of golden yellow clouds. The scene takes place at the entrance gate to Hasedera Temple, with the structure visible at upper right and a blossoming plum tree beyond. A handsome design with expressive figures.

Artist - Yoshifuji (1828 - 1889)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 18 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels, backed with paper. Slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details.

Nagoya Sanza Opening a Lacquer Box, 1847 - 1852 by Yoshifuji (1828 - 1889)
Nagoya Sanza Opening a Lacquer Box, 1847 - 1852 by Yoshifuji (1828 - 1889)

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