Comments - Fantastic scene of warriors fighting the shadowy gray ghostly troops of the deceased Taira no Masakado. The spirits seem t repel the barrage of arrows fired at them, stopping them in their flight. During the Heian era, Masakado led a rebellion against the central government, attacking provincial governments and eventually controlling eight provinces. He was killed at the Battle of Kojima, and his severed head was displayed in Edo as a warning to other warriors. According to legend, his wrathful spirit returned to exact vengeance on his killers. At lower left, a samurai runs at the supernatural warriors gripping his sword with both hands above his head, his fellow samurai staring up at the apparition in terror. A fascinating subject.

Artist - Yoshikazu (active circa 1850 - 1870)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 9 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight soiling, a few creases and spots, small stain. Please see photos for details. Good overall.