Comments - Bold kabuki scene from the play "Kane Juji no Tsujiura" (Crossroads at Ten Bells on a Frosty Night). In the scene at Ueno Sanmei Bridge, Konpira has just witnessed the masseur Shuan robbing and murdering a young man, then throwing the body into the river. At left, Shuan sits on a box with a tengu mask on the side of it, wearing a white robe and carrying a walking stick. He glares up at Konpira angrily, who demands the stolen money. Suddenly, the policeman Sugita Kaoru appears at right, holding up a lantern as he watches the men. The bridge can be seen behind him, with a signboard in the center along the embankment. Buildings stretch out along the opposite shore, with small figures of a beauty and a young man beyond. At upper right, a windmill can be seen. From left, the actors are Nakamura Nakazo, Ichikawa Sadanji, and Onoe Kikugoro. The play is a sewamono or domestic drama portraying contemporary people rather than depicting historic subjects. A striking design with an interesting setting.

Artist - Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical folds. A few small holes, repaired. Creasing throughout, slight toning, soiling, and rubbing. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.