Angry Commoner and Ox

Artist Toyohara Kunichika (Japanese, 1835 - 1900)

Date1875

Mediumwoodblock print

DimensionsOverall: 35.9 × 72.5 cm (14 1/8 × 28 9/16 in.)

ClassificationsFINE ART

Credit LinePurchased with Funds Provided by Judith Patt

Object number2015.036.023 a-c

DescriptionIntriguing kabuki scene of an angry commoner grabbing an ox by the horn, glaring at it furiously, his other hand drawn back with a cloth in it. At right, a samurai lifts a basket hat above his head for a better look, scowling with anger, while the surprised beauty below him stares wide-eyed, cradling a baby to her chest. At left, the successful merchant Kinokuniya Bunzaemon frowns unhappily as he watches. From left, the actors are Bando Hikosaburo V as Kinokuniya Bunzaemon, Nakamura Shikan IV as Kamata Matahachi, Ichikawa Sadanji I as Torikoshi Tachibana, and Arashi[?] IV as the wet nurse Otake. A fascinating subject with expressive figures and lively color.

Status

Not on view