Comments - Incredible illustration of one of the great battles from the epic tale of "The Taiheiki," which recounts the warring period between the Northern and Southern courts in 14th century Japan. This fantastic design shows a warrior charging ahead into combat on a lively brown horse, thrusting his pole arm at an oncoming enemy. He grimaces fiercely as he leans forward, the wind blowing his loose hair wildly about his head. His personal standard rises above his back, a gruesome skull attached to a bony spine with fluttering strips of yellow cloth. His attacker counters his blow with a naginata, gripping the weapon with both hands as his horse rears. He wears a fluttering red cape lined in yellow with a tiger on the back, with scaly wings over the shoulders. The battlefield is littered with swords and spears, along with the bodies of the dead and dying, whose faces are a ghastly blue, blood flowing from their wounds. At left, two samurai follow the horseman on foot, brandishing swords above their heads. A dramatic night scene with vibrant color and terrific detail in the armor and weapons. An amazing samurai subject.
Artist - Yoshikata (active circa 1841 - 1864)
Image Size - 29 1/4" x 14" + margins as shown
Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some light soiling at edges. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.
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