Comments - Interesting kabuki scene from a play about Hachirobei, a dealer in "furuteya" or second-hand goods, who needs money to recover a sword stolen from his former master. Unbeknownst to him, his wife, Hyogoya Otsuma, decides to divorce him to marry the rich Yahei to acquire the money for him. Here, Hachirobei frowns worriedly after learning the news as his wife thrusts out a letter to him. He grips a sword in his hand, and the beauty scrambles backwards on the floor as he threatens her. The room opens onto a fenced courtyard in dark silhouette beneath the night sky, a pine tree and stone lantern framing the view at left. Nice expressive figures.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 19 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels, backed with paper. Slight thinning along and separation at ends of horizontal centerfold, a couple holes, repaired. Slight toning, soiling, and rubbing. Please see photos for details.