Heroic Stories of the Taiheiki - Few other Japanese woodblock printmakers ever matched Kuniyoshi's detail and artistry in the genre of warrior prints. Published between 1847 - 1850, Kuniyoshi's fantastic series, "Heroic Stories of the Taiheiki (Grand Pacification)," presents fifty full-length portraits of famous warriors involved in the closing period of the civil wars in 16th century Japan, just before unification of the country. These dramatic images show these leaders engaged in battle or posing heroically in all their military glory. Kuniyoshi captures the unique aspects of each warrior, with texts above detailing their heroic careers. To evade the prohibitions enacted in 1804 against depicting historic figures who lived after 1573, each warrior has a pseudonym that would have been easily recognized by the viewers of the time. The actual name of the individual is provided in parentheses. These prints are a great opportunity to collect a part of Japanese history, dynamically documented by the leading master of warrior prints.

Asakura Saemonnotayu Yoshikane (Asakura Saemonnokami Yoshikage) - Terrific portrait of Asakura Yoshikage, a powerful 16th century daimyo from Echizen Province. Along with Asai Nagamasa, he fought against Oda Nobunaga, but was eventually defeated by Nobunaga at the Battle of Anegawa in 1570. He is shown preparing to commit seppuku, using his sword cut through his white outer sash, frowning slightly as he concentrates on his task. He wears a patterned robe and hakama pants under a fine suit of armor, his hair tied back with a sash. He has already removed his horned battle helmet, shoulder plates, and long sword, which rest on the floor behind him. At lower left, an offering tray holds five shallow blue cups. Wonderful detail in the armor and weapons. A handsome design.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 9"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper, which also forms top margin. Slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.