Sato Tadanobu and Overturned Go Board

by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Current Status

Sato Tadanobu and Overturned Go Board by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Original Chikanobu (1838 - 1912) Japanese Woodblock Print
Sato Tadanobu and Overturned Go Board

Comments - Fantastic kabuki triptych depicting the famous warrior Sato Tadanobu, a loyal retainer of Yoshitsune. According to legend, after a former mistress betrayed his hiding place, he used a go board to fight off more than 200 policemen who came to arrest him. He is shown here kicking over the go board onto an enemy while gripping another attacker in a head lock under his arm. The ground is a tangle of arms and legs as fallen policemen struggle to right themselves. A samurai in full armor glares at him from the left, clutching a tasseled fan and wearing a tall black court cap. Another nobleman and the beauty who gave him away watch from the right. Beautifully detailed with delicate cloth embossing in the white kimono and burnishing in the court caps. A terrific scene from this legendary tale, with a dramatic composition and fine detail. Go board prints are highly collectible, and this woodblock illustrates one of the most famous tales involving a go board. A great choice for a collector.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14" x 28" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few small holes, repaired. Faint offsetting, very slight rubbing at edges, a couple creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Sato Tadanobu and Overturned Go Board by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Sato Tadanobu and Overturned Go Board by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

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