Okaru and Heiemon 1875 - Interesting kabuki scene from Act 7 of the "Kanadehon Chushingura," the famous drama based on the tale of the 47 ronin. Onoe Kikugoro appears as the courtesan Okaru, smiling as she looks up at her brother Heiemon. Oboshi Yuranosuke, the leader of the ronin, has just discovered Okaru spying on him as he read a secret message about the vendetta. Realizing the Yuransouke intends to kill Okaru to keep the plan secret, Heiemon asks Yuranosuke to allow him to kill the beauty to save their family's honor. He frowns down at Okaru angrily, his arms firmly folded across his chest. She smiles as she holds a sheaf of paper and a brush, seemingly unaware of the gravity of the situation. She wears a purple outer robe over a red kimono with a blue collar patterned with purple grasses, tied with a blue obi that reverses to a red tie-dyed pattern. The background features a bold red tie-dyed textile pattern. A nice composition with expressive figures.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 9 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Small hole, slight toning and soiling, a few creases, a couple stains. Please see photos for details.