Foundations of Morality and Success - Many artists created designs for this long-running newspaper series depicting both contemporary and historical heroes and heroines. These exemplary individuals were thought to embody values to both inspire and encourage readers. The series was published by Heikichi Matsuki of the Daikokuya publishing firm, a company established in 1763 and known for its high quality woodblock designs. Daikokuya commissioned leading artists of the day, such as Yoshitoshi, Toshikata, Kiyochika, and Kunichika, to create these wonderful designs. Beautifully detailed with fine line work and soft shading, these great Meiji era prints were singled out for recognition by the Japanese government when the series was completed in 1890 for encompassing such uplifting and noble subjects. First edition prints feature a patterned border in a variety of colors, while the 1902 edition has plain paper borders.

Kikuchi Takemitsu Standing atop an Enemy - Terrific portrait of the fourteenth-century general Kikuchi Takemitsu, who fought for the emperor during the warring period between the Northern and Southern courts in Japan. He stands proudly with one foot atop his vanquished enemy, his battle helmet in hand and his sword clenched between his teeth. In his other hands he holds the striped reins of his horse. A broken arrow protrudes from one of his shoulder plates, while others litter the ground below. A triumphant pose for this respected warrior, with wonderful detail in the armor and weapons, including delicate embossing on the white arrow fletching and burnishing on the armor.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 9 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with somewhat stiff paper. Light toning. Some prints have a couple small spots. Please see photos for details.