Toyohara Kunichika, Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura: Sushiya (Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees: The

This oban-format nishiki-e triptych, Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura - Sushiya (Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees - The Sushi Shop), is by Toyohara Kunichika, a celebrated master of actor prints active during the late Edo and Meiji periods.

The composition depicts Yasuke, actually Taira no Koremori in disguise, Osato, the sushi shop proprietor's daughter, and Gonta, nicknamed "the Rogue," vividly evoking the distinctive atmosphere of the kabuki stage. The expressive faces and poses, finely carved strands of hair, and striped and floral kimono patterns demonstrate Kunichika's accomplished skill in figure depiction.

Against the dark background, brilliant indigo and vermilion stand out to striking effect. Displayed together, the three sheets reveal the complete theatrical scene, forming an evocative woodblock-print composition.

Artist: Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900).

Signature: Kunichika hitsu (Brush of Kunichika).

Publisher: Tsujiokaya Kamekichi, abbreviated as Tsujikame.

Carver's signature: Hori Ei.

Technique: Polychrome woodblock print, oban-format nishiki-e.

Dimensions: Each sheet approximately 36.5 cm high x 24.2 cm wide.

A set of three sheets, unframed.

Condition: Age-related yellowing, spotting, fold marks and creasing to the paper, with wear to the edges and localized losses. Detail photographs and images of the reverse are provided. Please examine these carefully to assess the condition.