The story of “Kezori” is based on a real incident involving a gang of seven smugglers who were caught in Nagasaki and punished harshly by being put into stocks for three days in Osaka in 1718. The event was first adapted for the puppet theatre, but then later multiple plays for the kabuki stage were created.

The kabuki role of the larger-than-life smuggler Kezori Kuemon became a favourite of the star actor Ichikawa Ebizo V (Danjuro VII) (1791-1859). This tradition was then continued by his son Ichikawa Danjuro IX (1838/44-1903), who is pictured here in the role, wearing the outfit associated with Kezori decorated with dragons, whilst performing the “staring at the sea” mie (Shiomi no mie) – a ferocious pose of Kezori Kuemon. This unique mie was created by Danjuro IX and has been immortalised in this print.

For the same print in the Art Institute of Chicago, accession number 1984.566, go to:
http://www.artic.edu/aic/collections/artwork/102617?search_no=1=3
Post Lot Text
This lot has been imported from outside the EU for sale and placed under the Temporary Admission regime. Import VAT is payable (at 5%) on the hammer price. VAT at 20% will be added to the buyer’s premium but will not be shown separately on the invoice. Please see Conditions of Sale for further information.