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The Print

Print 9-1. Jiraiya and the Courtesan

Oban diptych by Kunisada, published by Maruya Seijiro in 1852.

Ichikawa Danjuro VIII is shown as the hero in this scene. At the right is a high-ranking courtesan whose name is given as Keisei Ayame (Keisei means `courtesan'), played by an actor identified as Iwai Kumesaburo III. Their game is taking place on the back of a servant whose posture mimics that of an earth demon, and who holds up a bowl of go stones in either hand. A strikingly original design and the only one I have ever seen on this subject.