Soma Palace from the Zen Taiheiki, 1868 - Terrific triptych featuring a ceremony at Soma Palace, the stronghold of the tenth-century rebel Taira no Masakado. After Masakado conquered most of the Kanto region and declared himself emperor, the court sent warriors to "pacify" his rebellion in 940. At left, a visiting samurai kneels with a sake cup in his outstretched hands as a beauty serves him from a long-handled container. He bows his head respectfully, watched by retainers in armor kneeling at left. In the center, a group of Masakado's noblemen sits before him, scowling angrily. Masakado watches from the right with an angry frown, dressed in formal court robes, holding a tasseled fan on his lap. Outside the palace, samurai are assembled for battle, wearing full armor and holding fluttering banners and standards. A great early Yoshitoshi design with expressive figures and attractive color.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 13 1/2" x 28 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Horizontal and vertical folds. Slight rubbing, creasing at edges, staining. Please see photos for details.