Comments - Fantastic depiction of the ghosts of Taira no Tomomori and his fallen warriors rising up out of the sea to sink Minamoto no Yoshitsune's ship as he crosses the sea at Daimotsu Bay. The ghastly spirits appear above the crest of a wave at left, generating a violent storm with enormous waves to swamp the boat. In the front of the boat, the warrior monk Benkei stands firm, gripping a string of prayer beads in his upraised hand as he recites prayers for their safety. Behind him, Yoshitsune thrusts out his sword, ready to do battle with the apparitions. Bolts of lightening flash across the sky, and the ship is tossed about on giant white-capped waves. An incredible scene from this famous tale, rendered with amazing detail and a striking composition. A rarely seen design by the Osaka artist Hokui, who was a student of Hokusai. A terrific choice for a collector interested in the samurai tradition, also in the collection of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Artist - Hokui (active circa 1830s - 1840s)

Image Size - 14 1/2" x 29 3/8"+ margins

Condition - This triptych with excellent color and detail. Three panels, not attached at the seams. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Rubbing at some corners. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.