The Subscription List, 1898

by Meiji era artist (unsigned)

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The Subscription List, 1898 by Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Original Meiji era Japanese Woodblock Print
The Subscription List, 1898

Comments - Handsome illustration from the famous kabuki play "The Subscription List" (Kanjincho), a tale about Minamoto no Yoshitsune and his men attempting to sneak across the border disguised as monks to evade his brother, Yoritomo. Charged with intercepting the party, the aristocrat Togashi Saemon, shown at right wearing a blue kamishimo patterned with cranes, becomes suspicious of the young porter at far left, who resembles Yoshitsune (and actually is). They tell him they are collecting funds for temple restoration, so Togashi asks Benkei to read a list of the contributors. Thinking quickly, he reads a fake subscription list from a blank scroll. Here, Benkei snatches the list away from the prying eyes of the nobleman, who glares at him angrily. The young Yoshitsune bows meekly at left, holding a walking staff. Nicely detailed with burnishing on Togashi's and Benkei's black caps, and embossing on Benkei's white pants. A favorite popular kabuki subject.

Artist - Meiji era artist (unsigned)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A couple small tears at edges, repaired. Creasing. Please see photos for details.

The Subscription List, 1898 by Meiji era artist (unsigned)
The Subscription List, 1898 by Meiji era artist (unsigned)

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