Comments - Interesting kabuki scene depicting "ningyoburi," a style of acting imitating the exaggerated motions of puppets. Two assistants dressed from head to toe in black with veiled faces act as puppeteers, giving the illusion of manipulating the performer. The beauty is Katanaya's daughter Ohana, and she holds a lamp in one hand, tilting her head with a slightly worried smile. She wears a black kimono patterned with colorful flowers and ribbons, edged with a red cherry blossom print. A pine tree frames the scene overhead, with a stone lantern at left, and the edge of a house at right. An intriguing image, beautifully detailed.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 9 3/4" + top margin as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. A few small wormholes, repaired. Slight wrinkling at bottom edge. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.