Comments - Fantastic triptych depicting Minamoto no Yoshitsune and his retainers gathered at an encampment overlooking the ocean. Just prior to the naval Battle of Yashima in 1185, Kajiwara Kagetoki suggested that the ships be equipped with reversed oars to allow them to move backwards if needed. Yoshitsune reacted angrily, accusing Kajiwara of cowardice. Yoshitsune leans forward at right, scowling and drawing his sword. He wears a fine suit of armor and a horned battle helmet topped with a dragon. The retainers in front of him attempt to restrain him, pleading and throwing their hands out to separate the parties. At top center, Yoshitsune's loyal warrior monk Benkei holds a pole arm upright, glaring ahead furiously. At lower left, an elderly samurai with a flowing white beard shouts and gestures with his fan. Battle flags and standards flutter overhead, and ships are moored along the shore below. A wonderfully energetic design, full of lively color and detail, including burnishing on some of the black court caps and lacquer armor fittings. A terrific subject for a collector interested in the samurai tradition.

Artist - Yoshitora (active circa 1840 - 1880)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, attached at the seams, backed with paper. A couple losses at edges, repaired with backing. Slight creasing and soiling, a couple small stains in left panel. Please see photos for details.