Comments - Fantastic scene from the life of the legendary samurai Kusunoki Masashige, a brilliant strategist and general who fought to restore the exiled Emperor Go-Daigo to the throne. He is shown at his encampment before the great Battle of Minatogawa, where Kusunoki led his men into the field at the emperor's order, knowing that his side faced superior forces and almost certain death. Badly defeated, Kusunoki and his remaining men committed suicide rather than face capture. Here, Kusunoki stands in the center dressed in full armor and carrying a bow as his eleven-year-old son Masatsura kneels before him atop a wooden shield. The father bids goodbye to his son, urging him to remain loyal to the emperor. Tent walls emblazoned with the crest of the Kusunoki Clan hang from the trees at right, with samurai seated soberly around their general. Kusunoki is remembered for his extreme loyalty and self-sacrifice, and a monument to him stands outside the Imperial Palace. A terrific triptych with expressive faces and wonderful detail in the armor and weapons. Include burnishing in the armor and cloth embossing in the tent walls. A fine choice for a samurai enthusiast.

Artist - Ryosetsu (19th century)

Image Size - 14" x 28 1/4" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached at the seams with minor soiling and ink offsetting in subject. A few areas of rubbing along edges. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.