Comments - Unusual scene of a young boy sitting at the edge of Yahagi Bridge, demanding a toll from a gang of robbers trying to cross. The scene is a parody of an event in the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, with Onzoshi Ushiwakamaru (the future Minamoto no Yoshitsune) standing in for the young Hideyoshi, and Ise Saburo Yoshimori as the leader of the gang in place of Hachisuka Koruku. Here, Yoshimori glares at the boy angrily, poking at him with the end of his spear, which Ushiwakamaro grasps between his toes. Two other men lean over the child, eyeing him curiously. The ruffians are armed with an impressive array of weapons, including spears, swords, an enormous hatchet, and a giant saw. Fantastic detail in the dress and weapons, along with expressive faces. A handsome composition with the wooden bridge stretching across the scene and misty clouds drifting past the full moon above, where a flock of geese in silhouette descends for the evening. A handsome design.

Artist - Yoshitsuya (1822 - 1866)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three separate panels. Paper hinge mounts on reverse at top edge. A few holes, repaired. Slight toning and creasing, ink marks. Please see photos for details.