Comments - Great kabuki triptych showing six female bandits dressed in an impressive array of kimono. The designs include pink and white herons with embossed feathers, a snake baring its fangs, a magic fox in a storm, bats flying among willow branches, and a fierce eagle. In the center, a beauty pulls her hair back, arranging it into a knot while her companion grips a knife. At right, one of the women holds the sheath of a sword as she looks soberly over her shoulder. A blossoming cherry tree in calligraphic strokes forms a quiet backdrop for the beautifully detailed figures. Includes metallic pigment that has oxidized to a dark tone on the knife, the checked obi at left, and the eyes of the snake and eagle. An intriguing subject, nicely detailed.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight thinning and small losses at corners, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases, offsetting from metallic pigment. Please see photos for details.