Comments - Terrific kabuki triptych of Taira no Tadamori catching a thief in the act stealing oil from the stone lanterns at a temple. The warrior had been charged by the Emperor Go-Shirakawa to capture a demon figure seen lurking around the temple at night, which, when seen in silhouette, had a spiky head and seemed to breath fire. Watching carefully, Tadamori discovered it to be only a vagrant monk, whose shaggy straw hat gave the illusion of spikes, carrying a covered flame. Tadamori frowns as he spies the thief, preparing to draw his sword. A light rain slants across the night scene, a soft pink glow coming from the lanterns against the gray night sky. A fantastic illustration of this famous tale, which earned Tadamori a reward from the emperor for his bravery and common sense. From left, the actors are Onoe Kikugoro V and Ichikawa Danjuro IX. A great design with a striking setting among the tree trunks.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 27 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Please see photos for details.