Comments - Fantastic scene from the life of the legendary samurai Kusunoki Masashige, a brilliant strategist and general who fought to restore the exiled Emperor Go-Daigo to the throne. He is shown at his encampment before the great Battle of Minatogawa, where Kusunoki led his men into the field at the emperor's order, knowing that his side faced superior forces and almost certain death. Badly defeated, Kusunoki and his remaining men committed seppuku. Here, Kusunoki stands in the center dressed in full armor and carrying a bow as his eleven-year-old son Masatsura kneels before him atop a wooden shield. The father bids goodbye to his son, urging him to remain loyal to the emperor. Tent walls emblazoned with the crest of the Kusunoki Clan hang from the trees at right, with samurai seated soberly around their general. Kusunoki is remembered for his extreme loyalty and self-sacrifice, and a monument to him stands outside the Imperial Palace. A terrific triptych with expressive faces and wonderful detail in the armor and weapons. Include burnishing in the armor and cloth embossing in the tent walls. A fine choice for a samurai enthusiast, also in the collection of the British Museum.

Artist - Ryosetsu (active Meiji era)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Thinning spot at one edge, repaired. Very slight rubbing, a couple light creases. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.