Original Kunichika (1835 - 1900) Japanese Woodblock Print
Tokiwa Gozen Fleeing through the Snow, 1897

Comments - Handsome kabuki triptych of Tokiwa gozen and her three sons escaping through the snow after the Taira murdered her husband, Minamoto no Yoshitomo. She looks back over her shoulder warily, cradling her infant to her chest beneath her red under robe. The older boys stand on either side of her with frightened expression, shivering and blowing on their hands to try to keep them warm in the falling snow. A pine tree frames the scene at left, and at right, a fence in gray silhouette encloses a building with white drapery featuring the Taira butterfly crest. At left, Bando Mitahachi plays Iwamakamaru. Nakamura Fukusuke IV appears as Lady Tokiwa. Nice expressive figures, detailed with embossing in the beauty's white kimono collar and trim.

Artist - Kunichika (1835 - 1900)
Image Size - 14" x 27 7/8" + top margin as shown
Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels. Vertical folds. A few wormholes, repaired. Creasing throughout, slight soiling, a few stains. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.