Kusunoki Masashige Saying Farewell to His Son, 1881

by Toyonobu (1859 - 1886)

Current Status

Kusunoki Masashige Saying Farewell to His Son, 1881 by Toyonobu (1859 - 1886)

Original Toyonobu (1859 - 1886) Japanese Woodblock Print
Kusunoki Masashige Saying Farewell to His Son, 1881

Comments - Fantastic scene from the life of the legendary samurai Kusunoki Masashige, a brilliant strategist and general who fought to restore the exiled Emperor Go-Daigo to the throne. His troops are gathered together before the great Battle of Minatogawa, where Kusunoki led his men into the field at the emperor's order, knowing that his side faced superior forces and almost certain death. Badly defeated, Kusunoki and his remaining men committed suicide rather than face capture. Here, Kusunoki sits on a low platform as his eleven-year-old son Masatsura kneels before him, pointing at a scroll on a tray with his fan. The father bids goodbye to his son, urging him to remain loyal to the emperor. Dressed in full armor, his retainers are all solemn-faced as they watch the poignant parting. Kusunoki is remembered for his extreme loyalty and self-sacrifice, and a monument to him stands outside the Imperial Palace. A terrific triptych with expressive faces and wonderful detail in the armor and weapons. Includes burnishing on the black court cap. A fine subject for a samurai enthusiast.

Artist - Toyonobu (1859 - 1886)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 28" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Small losses at corners, a few tears at edges and wormholes, repaired. Creasing, slight toning and soiling, slight rubbing at edges, stains. Please see photos for details.

Kusunoki Masashige Saying Farewell to His Son, 1881 by Toyonobu (1859 - 1886)
Kusunoki Masashige Saying Farewell to His Son, 1881 by Toyonobu (1859 - 1886)