A Chronicle of the Rise and Fall of the Genji and Heike - Chikanobu's 1885 series "A Chronicle of the Rise and Fall of the Genji and Heike" depicts some of the most famous samurai and events of the bitter Genpei War between the rival Genji (Minamoto) and Heike (Taira) clans from 1180 to 1185.The war ended with the fall of the Taira and the establishment of the Kamakura Shogunate under Minamoto no Yoritomo in 1192. These lively and colorful scenes document heroic warriors and daring feats along with a few quieter moments, each beautifully detailed with a handsome setting for the expressive figures. Many feature deluxe embellishments such as embossing or burnishing. A rarely seen Chikanobu historic series and an interesting complement to his more widely known series.

Kajiwara Kagetoki, 1885 - Great portrait of the Minamoto retainer Kajiwara Kagetoki waiting for the Taira. He stands next to a large tree, gripping a bow with both hands as he watches birds fluttering overhead. He wears a fine suit of armor and a helmet topped with a pair of antlers. A warrior on a black horse approaches through the valley below, the samurai behind him carrying a fluttering red banner with the butterfly crest of the Taira clan. A few dark misty clouds drift through the sky, adding a slightly ominous note to the scene. A bold design, beautifully composed, detailed with burnishing on the bow, Kagetoki's armor, and the black horse.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14" x 9 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. A couple small repairs, a few creases. Please see photos for details.