Bidspirit auction | Chikanobu, First Horse Day, Chiyoda

Chikanobu, First Horse Day, Chiyoda Palace, Kabuki - Artist: Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) Title: First Horse Day Series: The Inner Palace of Chiyoda Publisher: Fukuda Hatsujiro Date: 1896 Size: (R) 23.5 x 35.4 (C) 25.0 x 35.4 (L) 23.6 x 35.4 cm Condition report: Light spots and water stains. Fold marks and creases. Some paper residue on the back. Kabuki actors gather outside the main hall of the Oku residential area to prepare a special performance on the first horse day of the lunar New Year. The celebrations are based on the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar. The troupe features a falconer, Wisteria Maiden, a daimyo's porter, heroic Aotake Goro with his giant arrow, red-faced demon and warrior monk Benkei carrying an enormous temple bell. The residence in the background or blossoming plums contrasts with the vivid colours of the performers. The point of the attention might be the ornamental kimono of Wisteria Maiden, beautifully adorned with flowers in full bloom. The New Year play is about to begin as the tension can be sensed between the patiently waiting audience and rehearsing troupe. Ref: JG1019TV01-8