Comments - Interesting kabuki scene of the beauty Tamaori threatening the monk Kumagai with a sword. During the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani, Kumagai killed Tamaori's husband, the young Prince Taira Atsumori, who was taking part in his first battle. Filled with remorse, Kumagai became a monk, saying prayers for his victim. Here, the beauty smiles as she raises the weapon above her head, holding back the sleeve of her pink kimono. Kumagi holds out a flattened helmet as he kneels on the ground, grimacing angrily as he looks back over his shoulder at a samurai wearing a vest over a suit of armor. Behind the figures, a blossoming cherry tree frames the entrance to a cave where a lacquer table holds scrolls, with a hanging scroll above. Expressive figures in an unusual setting, nicely detailed with embossing on the beauty's kimono.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight separation at ends of vertical fold at side of one panel, a few holes, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, slight rubbing at edge. Please see photos for details.