Comments - Fantastic depiction of Saigo Takamori shaking up the underworld to complete the drastic reforms he was not able to make during his lifetime. The leader of the Satsuma Rebellion, Saigo committed suicide following the defeat of the samurai by the Imperial Army. Shown here in the land of the dead, Saigo angrily raises his fist high at right while gripping a red horned demon with his other hand. The scene is chaotic as Emma-o, the Buddhist god of the underworld, tumbles head over heels to the floor at left, his legs kicking and robes fluttering around him. Tiny rebel samurai seem to be attacking him as well, rushing forward at bottom center from among the scattered scrolls and overturned books. At far left, an eerie, rather horse-faced horned demon peers around the edge of Emma-o's red robe. At top center, two severed heads fly through the air along with the god's colorful headdress. At right, a man in a military uniform grabs two demons by the neck as he bites his lower lip in concentration. A large tilted oval mirror behind him displays the true sins of the viewer. An incredible design, skillfully and creatively drawn, detailed with fine line work and lively color. A fascinating image from the Satsuma Rebellion.

Artist - Suzuku Toshimoto (active circa 1877 - 1890s)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This triptych with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels partially backed with old paper. A couple light vertical creases in subject. Slight rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.