Comments - Handsome illustration of the first act from the classic kabuki play "Kanadehon Chushingura," based on the famous tale of the 47 Ronin. The beautiful Lady Kaoyo, the wife of Lord Hangan, has arrived at Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine to identify a samurai's helmet. She kneels in the center, holding up the helmet on a purple cloth, a roll of tissues between her teeth. Above her, Lord Moronao frowns unhappily, wearing a voluminous black kimono and court cap. At left, Lord Hangan leans forward with an angry frown after witnessing Moronao making unwanted advances towards his wife. The actors include Ichikawa Sadanji as Hangan, Iwai Hanshiro as Lady Kaoyo, and Ichikawa Danjuro as Moronao. Nice large expressive figures against a dramatic red sky, detailed with burnishing on the black court caps and Moronao's robe.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Small loss at corner, wormholes, repaired. Slight curling. Please see photos for details.