The Fever of Taira no Kiyomori

by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

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The Fever of Taira no Kiyomori by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Original Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892) Japanese Woodblock Print
The Fever of Taira no Kiyomori

Bill’s Curated Selection Part II - I assembled this interesting and rare collection of Yoshitoshi over the last year. Yoshitoshi works are a personal favorite. I hope you enjoy shopping my collection as much as I enjoyed putting it together. – Bill

Comments - Fantastic depiction of the ruthless leader Taira no Kiyomori on his deathbed, wracked by a terrible fever. In his quest for political power, the brutal Kiyomori killed or crushed any opponents who stood in his way. In his later years, he was haunted by his actions, and began to see the spirits of those he had murdered. During his final illness, he was taunted by visions of demons and spirits. Here, he rails at the creatures only he can see, tormented by a shrieking warrior, a horned demon attacking him with a club, and a horrible witch with scraggly white hair. The heads of two victims appear mounted on stands near the top. At right, his wife prays for his spirit, her hands clasped to her forehead, a nobleman kneeling solemnly behind her. An incredible, imaginative triptych, detailed with fine line work, a beautiful embossed pattern on Kiyomori's white kimono, and burnishing on the black court cap and black obi. Only the second time we've seen this haunting and memorable scene.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27 5/8"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. A couple small repairs, a few creases and light stains, slight rubbing on beauty's face. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.

The Fever of Taira no Kiyomori by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)
The Fever of Taira no Kiyomori by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)