Comments - Terrific triptych depicting a ridgepole-raising ceremony for three kabuki theaters. At left, Sawamura Tanosuke III holds a haraigushi wand with bundles of folded paper used in Shinto purification rituals. In the center, Nakamura Shikan IV smiles as he reads from a sheet of paper. Kawarazaki Gonjuro I stands at right carrying a large mallet decorated with symbols of the takaramono or precious things. A low platform behind them holds rows of oil lamps with orange flames, with offering trays beyond holding rice cakes and blue vases topped with folded paper. Colorful streamers flutter from the wooden supports against the soft blue sky. An interesting subject, wonderfully detailed.
Artist - Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Image Size - 13 5/8" x 28"
Condition - Nice detail. Vertical and diagonal folds. A few small repairs, wrinkling throughout.
