The Death of the Insurgents in the Kumamoto Rebellion, 1876 - Dramatic illustration of Kumamoto insurgents retreating from battle with the Japanese Imperial Army during the Shinpuren Rebellion in October 1876. The insurrection was quickly put down by the soldiers, leaving many samurai dead, with others committing seppuku. Here, a group of samurai stagger to the top of a hill across the river from the fighting, each one covered in blood from multiple wounds. At right, a warrior stands with one foot atop his horse's back, gesturing with his hand and gripping a naginata with blood dripping down the blade and handle. In the center, a blood-spattered samurai leans heavily on his spear, the man next to him gripping his sword with a determined expression. At left, another man bleeding heavily from a head wound uses his sword as a support, stretching out his hand for help. Red orange smoke billows across the night sky from the battlefield at left, where the battle continues. An incredible, if gory, image of this historic event, rendered with expressive figures in a rugged natural setting. Includes burnishing in some of the armor.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. A few small holes, repaired. A few creases. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.