Comments - Fantastic triptych depicting Minamoto no Yoshitsune and his troops setting sail for Ezo. Fleeing his brother, Yoshitsune crossed over to Ezogashima (the island of Hokkaido), and lived with the Ainu for a time. Here, the young warrior sits on a folding stool under a canopy of the top deck of his ship, wearing a vest over his armor and a battle helmet. He is surrounded by retainers, with the faithful warrior monk Benkei standing in the prow of the ship keeping a lookout. Benkei grips a naginata, and has a monk's cowl wrapped about his head. Waves crash against the hull of the ship, sending up foamy white spray, and a second ship can be seen in the distance as they approach the rocky shore. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has this image in its collection. A terrific image with a bold composition.

Artist - Yoshitora (active circa 1840 - 1880)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 29 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. A few losses and wormholes, repaired. Slight toning, soiling, and rubbing. Please see photos for details.