Benkei in a Boat - Terrific illustration of the Noh play titled "Funa-Benkei" (Benkei in a Boat), a drama about Yoshitsune and his loyal retainer, warrior monk Benkei. After Yoshitsune and the Minamoto forces defeated the Taira at the naval battle of Dan-no-ura, the Taira commander Tomomori committed suicide by tying himself to an anchor and leaping into the sea. While Benkei and Yoshitsune are later sailing through Daimotsu Bay, a huge storm arises, caused by the vengeful ghosts of the Taira. Here, the spirit of Taira no Tomomori rises from his watery grave, gripping a naginata and dancing about, his long hair flowing over his shoulders and back. His skin is pale blue, a sign of his otherworldliness, and he wears a white patterned tunic over full hakama pants with a design of splashing waves. In the boat, Benkei clasps a string of prayer beads between his hands, praying for the safety of his companions. His entreaties are heard, and the fearful Taira ghosts disappear beneath the sea. A fantastic image from this popular tale, beautifully detailed with fine embossing in the white hakama pants and silver mica in the pattern on Benkei's tunic, which has oxidized to a darker tone.

Artist - Toshihide (1863 - 1925)

Image Size - 18" x 13 3/4"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Two separate panels. Backed with old paper. Some light offsetting in subject as shown. Please see photos for details. Good overall.