Comments - Dramatic scene from the play "Kanzen Choaku Nozoki Garakuri" at the Meijiza or Meiji Theater of the evil doctor Murai Choan murdering his brother-in-law, Jube, at the foot of Akabane Bridge on a rainy night. Choan convinced his Jube and his wife, Osoyo, to sell their daughter into prostitution to raise money to pay their taxes. Then he waited for Jube to return home with the money, attacking him and stealing his purse. Jube then planted an umbrella left behind by one of his patients, the ronin Fujikake Dojuro, to incriminate him. Here, Choan strikes Jube on the head with his sword, splitting his hat, as he looks over his shoulder with a suspicious frown, watching for any witnesses. The inset at upper right depicts Fujikake, who wears a black kimono with a beautiful burnished pattern, set against a bold pattern or red leaves. The foot of the bridge can be seen in silhouette at lower right, and damiyo's mansions line the street behind the murderer, with a fire tower in the center. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Sadanji as Murai and Ichikawa Gonjuro. A striking design with large colorful figures set against an interesting muted background. Includes additional burnishing on the black head scarf and scabbard, and metallic pigment that has oxidized to a dark tone on the sword blade.

Artist - Kunisada III (1848 - 1920)

Image Size - 14" x 27 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight curling, toning, and staining. Please see photos for details.