Comments - Terrific depiction of the Battle of Yashima between the Minamoto and Taira during the Genpei War. During the fighting on shore, Minamoto no Yoshitsune lost his small bow, and did not want to be laughed at if it fell into enemy hands, so he risked his life to recover it. Plunging his steed through the deep water, Yoshitsune leans forward at bottom center with a riding crop to retrieve the bow bobbing on the undulating waves. Taira warriors in the two boats surrounding him reach out with hooked pole arms to grab him. At right, Yoshitsune's faithful retainer Benkei rides right behind his lord, thrusting his sword out over the waves, accompanied by several other Minamoto samurai with their horses. Overhead, a pole arm sails through the sky, and banners wave above the ships. A great depiction of this classic tale with a wonderful sense of movement in the water and fine bokashi shading.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 29"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. Slight creasing and soiling. Please see photos for details.