Comments - Great scene from the popular kabuki play "The Subscription List" (Kanjincho) the story of Minamoto no Yoshitsune trying to sneak across the border disguised as monks. The aristocrat Togashi, shown at right in a blue kimono patterned with cranes, is charged with intercepting the party. In the center, the loyal warrior monk Benkei glares at him angrily, clutching a string of prayer beads in his hand. The young Yoshitsune sits meekly at left, holding a walking staff and wearing a woven hat. Musicians and chanters can be seen on the stage behind the actors, playing shamisen, drums, and a flute. Nicely detailed with burnishing on Togashi's black court cap, the black sleeves of the musicians, and Benkei's black vest, along with blue mica lines on Benkei's pants.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 14" x 27 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight soiling and curling, paper remnant and rubbing at bottom of left panel, a couple creases at edges. Please see photos for details.