The Syllable Ma: Ichikawa Sadanji as Akabane Genzo - The Night Attack of the Loyal Retainer - Handsome design from Kunichika's 1866 series "The Night Attack of the Loyal Retainers" (Gishi uchi-iri no zue), which pairs half-length kabuki portraits with insets showing an action scene from the night attack on Moronao's mansion, in kana syllabary order. The large expressive figures are nicely detailed and set off by a deep red background. The portraits extend up over the insets, adding a sense of depth. A great early Kunichika 47 ronin series. A nice choice for a Kunichika collector or anyone interested in the "Kanadehon Chushingura."

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 8 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. A few small losses at edges and holes, repaired. Slight toning, soiling, slight rubbing at edges. Light horizontal line where backing papers overlap. Please see photos for details.