Akushichiboe Kagekiyo Appearing Before Hatakeyama Shigetada at the Hall of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji in Nara, 1866

by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Current Status

Akushichiboe Kagekiyo Appearing Before Hatakeyama Shigetada at the Hall of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji in Nara, 1866 by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Original Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892) Japanese Woodblock Print
Akushichiboe Kagekiyo Appearing Before Hatakeyama Shigetada at the Hall of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji in Nara, 1866

Comments - Fantastic triptych showing the wild-haired warrior Akushichiboe Kagekiyo confronting two opponents who face him on either side. After surviving the defeat of the Taira Clan at the Battle of Dan-no-ura by the Minamoto, Kagekiyo determined to kill Minamoto no Yoritomo in retaliation. When he heard that Yoritomo would be visiting Todai-ji Temple in preparation for the reconstruction of the Great Buddha there, he decided to try to assassinate him while there. Disguised in monks' robe, Kagekiyo stands firm, holding a naginata as he watches the samurai at right stretching out a length of rope, an iron truncheon clenched between his teeth. Another warrior approaches from the left, swinging a truncheon. Yoritomo gestures with his fan from the stone verandah at the rear, the drapery overhead featuring the Minamoto mon or family crest. The scene is framed by blossoming cherry trees with petals falling to the ground. A terrific early triptych by Yoshitoshi with large expressive figures. A fine choice for a samurai enthusiast.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 28 3/4" x 14 1/4"

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

Akushichiboe Kagekiyo Appearing Before Hatakeyama Shigetada at the Hall of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji in Nara, 1866 by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)
Akushichiboe Kagekiyo Appearing Before Hatakeyama Shigetada at the Hall of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji in Nara, 1866 by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

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