Scabbards Brushing in the Yoshiwara

by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Current Status

Scabbards Brushing in the Yoshiwara by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Original Kunichika (1835 - 1900) Japanese Woodblock Print
Scabbards Brushing in the Yoshiwara

Comments - Handsome scene from a kabuki play of the two arch enemies, Nagoya Sanza and Fuwa Banzaemon, accidentally meeting in the Yoshiwara one night when they walk past each other and their scabbards brush. Entrusted by his lord with the care of a precious scroll, Sanza was banished from his clan after the scroll was stolen by the evil Banzaemon, who appears at right wearing a black robe with a bold design of swirling clouds and red lightning bolts. He starts to draw his sword as he glares at his enemy with a tightlipped frown. In the center, Sanza holds his cases sword, wearing a blue kimono patterned with swallows in flight and driving raindrops. Teahouses line the street behind them, with a blossoming cherry tree set against a deep blue violet sky. A colorful design with large expressive figures, detailed with burnishing on the black areas of the kimono and the scabbard.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panel, backed with paper. A few holes, repaired. Very slight soiling, a few creases, wrinkling in left panel. Please see photos for details.

Scabbards Brushing in the Yoshiwara by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)
Scabbards Brushing in the Yoshiwara by Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

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