Comments - Fantastic image from the epic tale "The Taiheiki" of Kusunoki Masatsura and his men attacking Ashikaga Takauji and his great army. At left, Takauji sits astride a black horse in front of an encampment. Two rays of yellow light seem to radiate from behind his shoulders, the shafts falling diagonally across the landscape. In the center, a warrior on a prancing dapple horse grips a large club above his head with both hands, grimacing fiercely. Several enemies have tumbled to the ground before him, other men standing their ground and directing swords and spears at the attacker. In the background, the battle continues with samurai on horseback fighting men on the ground. A fantastic scene with lively color and wonderful detail in the expressive faces, armor, and weapons. According to the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, which has this image in its collection, the scene is a disguised representation of the tale of Hideyoshi staring down his enemy Sakuma Morimasa. A great design.

Artist - Yoshitora (active circa 1840 - 1880)

Image Size - 29 1/2" x 14 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some rubbing and soiling at edges. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.