A preparatory drawing (Shita-e), depicting Bando Hikosaburo V as Iyami Kingoro, is brush-drawn on very thin washi. Beneath cherry blossom branches in full bloom, the actor stands in front of a portable street kiosk (yatai) with many drawers, dressed in costume and holding a Taiko drum.

The drawn design exhibits slight differences from the final version seen in the printed triptych. This design was intended for the central panel of the printed triptych, portraying a scene from the Kabuki play, 'Hikunui De Kasumi no Nidomise.'

It was a common practice for pupils to assist in the production of print designs within the studio. Therefore, it is possible that this preparatory drawing was executed by one of Kunisada's students at the time.