■Explanation

◎「Segawa Kikunojō as the Love-crazed Onatsu」(Signed "Shunkō ga"; without publisher's seal/ Hosoban Nishikie/Important Art Object) 

◎Kikunojō is attired for the role of Onatsu in Michiyuki Hiyoku no Kiku Chō (Lovers' Journey of the Inseparable Chrysanthemum and Butterfly)-the nibamme, or second part, of the play Kabuki no Hana Bandai Soga (The Immortal Soga, Flower of Kabuki)- presented at the Edo Ichimura-za beginning April 25, 1781. Playing opposite Kikunojō was Ichikawa Monnosuke as Seijūrō, Onatsu's lover.

According to the essay "Kumo no Itomaki" (The Spider's Bobbin), published in 1846 by Santō Kyōzan, "this second part was a sensational hit unparalleled in the history of Kabuki and ran through to autumn."

Shunkō (1743-1812) chose for this design one of the climactic moments of Kikunojō's vivid portrayal of Onatsu, who, crazed by love for Seijūrō and carrying a sun hat inscribed with his name, seeks him everywhere. The locks of her hair are disarranged, and a purple sash symbolizing sickness binds her coiffure. The artist, not content merely to produce an erotically tinged portrait of Kikunojo, has successfully rendered the poignant aspects of this famous Kabuki tragedy. 

■Size
・Height: 31.9cm
・Width: 14.7cm

◎When shipping, we will take care to avoid water damage, bending, etc.

◎No need to worry about shipping. We will ship it quickly. Ships via FedEx courier. We will ship the item with a tracking number.