Comments - Handsome kabuki scene from the play commonly known as "Kuruwa Bunsho," a tale about Fujiya Izaemon and his sweetheart, the courtesan Yugiri. Izaemon has been disinherited by his family because of his love for Yugiri, the most famous beauty of the Yoshidaya Teahouse. The pair want to marry, but Izaemon has no money to redeem her contract. When he learns that she has become ill from lack of seeing him, he becomes determined to pay her a visit. Here, Izaemon kneels at left, offering a tobacco set to Yugiri, who holds a pipe in her hand. She wears a striking outer robe patterned with chrysanthemums and plovers flying above splashing waves. The sash tied around her forehead signifies her invalid state. She looks back at him with a wistful smile as the proprietor of the teahouse, Yoshidaya Kizaemon glares at the couple from a doorway, his arms folded firmly across his chest. The actor in the right panel is Seki Sanjuro. An interesting design with expressive figures and a nicely detailed interior setting.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 28 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few holes, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few marks. Please see photos for details.