Kabuki scene, c.1850-1852 (woodblock print on paper)

Kabuki scene performed in grand interior before ladies in waiting and women of high rank. Kabuki play's title is Sugawara denju tenarai kagami. The women hold candles out to light the faces of the actors (as stage hands would do so at the kabuki theatre). The two actors performing on stage are similarly dressed in grey and white check kimono, one carries a large straw hat. Ume-o maru, with hat, is performed by kabuki actor Nakamura Utaemon IV. Triptych. Publisher: Tamaya Sosuke. Censors' seals: Fukushima and Muramatsu. Retail seal: shita uri. Kuniyoshi, Utagawa