Comments - Lively illustration of the young Ushiwakamaru, the future Benkei, demonstrating his swordsmanship as he bests a much older samurai. With a thrust of his blade, Ushiwakamaru dashes his opponent to the ground, his foe struggling to block the blow with his naginata handle. His torch falls through the air beside him, leaving a trail of orange flames and smoke. At left, two men flee the scene, running past a stone lantern, a shaft of white lights shining across the evening sky. A great design with wonderful detail in the expressive figures and fine bokashi shading.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Loss at bottom left corner of center panel, a few small holes, repaired. Creasing, slight soiling, a few faint stains. Please see photos for details.