Kunichika - The Helmet Selection at Hachiman Shrine from Chushingura

Toyohara Kunichika

A design by Kunichika of the opening act of the great revenge tragedy - the Chushingura. The ronin have all gathered to find and present a special helmet at the shrine and it is Hangan's wife, Kaoyo, who is the one to identify it. When the ceremony is over and she is eventually left alone with Kaoyo, Moronō propositions her but she rejects his amorous advances. Moronao is visible in the black robes on the right hand sheet, Kaoyo seen on the left.

Date: 1890

Size: (L) 25.3 x 37.2 © 25.6 x 37.5 (R) 25.4 x 37.3 cm

Condition: Very good color and impression. 3 separate sheets. Not backed, some stains and creases as shown.

Medium: Original woodblock print

Genre: Ukiyo-e