The illustration shows a samurai kneeling next to his opponent and looking at his kozuka (by-knive as part of sword mounting). Maybe that he could forestall a sword attack by throwing his kokuza and knocking out his opponent.
Beautiful and rare print!

Kuchi-e are woodblock prints which were printed for the publication in Japanese novels and literary magazines. Produced at the turn of the century (1868-1912).
The translation of Kuchi-e means "mouth images". Seen that way, they are, if you like, the precursors of the later mangas.

Artist: Unknown
Format: approx. 27 x 21 cm.
Year of publication: around 1880
Condition: Clean sheet. Corners and edges are slightly scuffed. Overall slightly darkened. A small wormhole at the upper right corner. Crease lines in the left side of the sheet.
Kuchi-e are original woodblock prints which were manually produced in the tradition of the former Ukiyo-e.

This image may slightly vary in colour to the original - due to the photo/scan.