Comments - Handsome kabuki double portrait of two sumo wrestlers, featuring Nakamura Fukusuke I as Tetsugatake and Kataoka Nizaemon VIII as Iwakawa. Shown at bottom, Iwakawa faces a dilemma because he needs money to finish ransoming a courtesan from a teahouse for his supporter. If he is unable to raise the funds, he will lose his honor and embarrass his patron. Leaning over his shoulder, his rival Tetsugatake suggests that if Iwakawa purposely loses the match to him, he will give him the needed funds. Iwakawa frowns unhappily, unsure what to do, pushing up the sleeve of his gray kimono printed with square motifs. Tetsugatake stares intently down at him, tight-lipped, waiting for an answer. He wears a plum colored kimono over a red under robe, a folded black robe draped over his shoulder. Nicely detailed with fine line work in the hair, burnishing in the black robe and collar, and handsome wood grain impression in the background.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 5/8" x 9 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Some light soiling. Backed with paper. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.