Comments - Incredible Toyokuni III triptych depicting a scene from the story of Minamoto no Yorimitsu (called Raiko) and the earth spider (tsuchigumo). Raiko fell ill with a fever and was having visions of demons. The last one was of an earth spider, preparing to cast a web over him. He lashed out at it with his sword and struck it down and immediately recovered from his fever. Here, the spider is visiting the ailing Raiko in the guise of a seductive courtesan. He eyes her warily while entangled in a long sash held by a wild-haired samurai at left. An enormous web fills the background, trapping two retainers wearing matching dragonfly kimono. Beautifully printed with fantastic detail, including a beautiful burnished pattern on the black robe at left. A terrific depiction of this legendary event.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 29 3/8" + top margin as shown

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