Comments - Handsome kabuki scene from the play commonly known as "Onna Seigen," a tale about Princess Hanako, who becomes a nun on the day she is falsely told that her fiance, Yoshida Matsuwaka, is dead. She later learns that he is in fact alive, and has become betrothed to her sister, a fact which eventually drives her into madness. Here, the nun rides in a boat poled along by Sarushima Soda, a rogue who is interested in the beauty himself. She looks up at him with a sweet smile, but he frowns angrily as he looks suspiciously over his shoulder. At right, Matsuwaka passes by in another boat, frowning as he recognizes his former sweetheart. He wears a straw raincoat over a print kimono tucked into patterned pants, a hat in one hand and a fishing net in the other. In the center, red flames rise from a fire basket hanging over the edge of the boat. Willow and blossoming cherry branches frame the sky above undulating water. A great design, nicely composed and detailed.

Artist - Yoshitora (active circa 1840 - 1880)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28 3/4" + margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight soiling and curling, a few small marks and creases. Please see photos for details.