Comments - Dramatic scene of heavy fighting at Fenghuangcheng during the Sino-Japanese War. At left, a Japanese soldier on horseback gallops into the battle, raising his sword above his head as an explosion startles the enemy, sending two Chinese riders flying backwards on their mounts. At right, infantrymen rush in, one gripping his gun over his head as a club to attack the fallen Chinese warriors. The fierce battle continues in the distance at left beyond clouds of smoke and dust, with the tower and walls of a castle visible in the distance. Interestingly, this triptych depicts a battle that never took place. The Japanese had planned to attack the city on the emperor's birthday as a gift to him, but scouts reported that the Chinese had already abandoned and burned the town. A lively image with expressive figures and fine detail, including bokashi shading in the background, and an interesting example of wartime propaganda.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 14" x 27 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight toning, a few small marks and stains. Please see photos for details. Good overall.