Oda Harunaga with a Page and a Lantern, 1865 - Interesting scene from a tale about Oda Harunaga (the real-life Oda Nobunaga) and a sago palm tree he imported for his garden in Kyoto. According to legend, the sago palm complained constantly about the cold climate and wanted to return to the tropical climate from which it came. Tired of hearing it complain, Harunaga sent a retainer to cut it down, but to his surprise, he found the tree had already started walking south to return home. Here, Harunaga stands on a low wooden stump or stepping stone, leaning forward intently as he gestures at the moving palm. A young page kneeling at his side illuminates the tree with his lantern, which casts a yellow shaft of light upwards across the night sky. Harunaga wears a fantastic red coat patterned with a dragon and crashing waves on the back, over full hakama pants with a design of his family crest. An intriguing early Yoshitoshi subject.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 8 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Paper remnant on reverse from previous backing. Vertical fold. A few tiny holes, repaired. Slight toning, soiling, and creasing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.