Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, No. 45

by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Current Status

Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, No. 45 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Original Chikanobu (1838 - 1912) Japanese Woodblock Print
Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, No. 45

Series; Eastern Brocades, Day and Night Compared

Eastern Brocades, Day and Night Compared - Designed in 1886, Chikanobu's extraordinary "Eastern Brocade" series features a fantastic range of subjects, including brave warriors, eerie ghosts, timeless beauties, and famous figures from traditional tales of triumph and treachery. These beautiful images bring the history and legends of Japan to life with colorful characters and a wonderful attention to detail. Note the appealing compositions and fine printing in these Meiji era masterworks, many of which include deluxe treatments such as burnishing, embossing, or the addition of mica. These attractive designs are a nice choice to collect or display.

Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, No. 45 - Fantastic underwater view of the ghost of Taira no Tomomori, who committed suicide after his defeat at the Battle of Dan-no-ura by tying himself to an anchor and jumping into the sea. Before his death, he threw the Taira family sword and mirror into the water to prevent them from falling into Minamoto hands. This illustration shows him at the bottom of the sea solemnly searching for the lost royal regalia amidst crabs and fish, a beautiful sea maiden knelling before him. The inset above shows him seated on the shore looking out over the Bay of Dan-no-ura before the battle. An incredible image from this legendary tale, beautifully detailed with fine line work and mica in the water. A great choice for a collector of samurai subjects.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Backed with old paper. Some light rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, No. 45 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, No. 45 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Auction Rules and guidelines

This Auction Falls Under Our Standard Auction Rules and Guidelines

If you are a new bidder, please read the Rules and Guidelines page before bidding.