Returning Sails in the Ryukyu Islands, 1867 - Fantastic depiction of the legendary warrior Minamoto no Tametomo, who was also known as Chinzei Hachiro Tametomo. During the Hogen Rebellion of 1156, Tametomo fought alongside his father against Taira forces led by Taira no Kiyomori and his own brother, Yoshitomo. After the Taira won, Yoshitomo banished his brother to the Ryukyu Islands. There, he met the beautiful Princess Neiwanjo, successfully defending her against an attempt on her throne and eventually marrying her. Here, Tametomo carries a large basket over his back containing a crane as he stands on the shore. The beauty kneels beside him, holding a small offering wrapped in green leaves. She wears a lovely robe shaded from burgundy to purple with a delicate floral pattern over an embossed pale pink under robe. The handsome young samurai watches her closely, his hair pulled back into a thick ponytail. The rugged, rocky shoreline provides a dramatic backdrop, with a ship anchored in the harbor and right and waves lapping on the beach at lower right. A striking composition with soft shading and fine detail. A rarely seen early Yoshitoshi triptych.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Stitching holes at one side of each panel, repaired. Vertical fold at side of each panel, a few creases and stains. Please see photos for details.