Eastern Brocades, Day and Night Compared - Designed in 1886, Chikanobu's extraordinary "Eastern Brocade" series features a fantastic range of subjects, including brave warriors, eerie ghosts, timeless beauties, and famous figures from traditional tales of triumph and treachery. These beautiful images bring the history and legends of Japan to life with colorful characters and a wonderful attention to detail. Note the appealing compositions and fine printing in these Meiji era masterworks, many of which include deluxe treatments such as burnishing, embossing, or the addition of mica. These attractive designs are a nice choice to collect or display.

Sato Tadanobu Dozing on a Go Board, No. 22 - Terrific scene of the famous warrior Sato Tadanobu, who saved the life of Minamoto Yoshitsune by wearing his friend's armor and fighting off monks at Yoshino while Yoshitsune escaped into the snowy mountains. Tadanobu later returned to Kyoto, where he stopped at a brothel to visit his lover, Okuruma. Having fallen asleep leaning on a go board, Okuruma decides to betray him by telling the authorities of his whereabouts. She pauses in the doorway for one last look at the samurai before she leaves a lamp burning on the floor next to him and his sword propped up in a niche behind him. Tadanobu uses the go board to fight off his enemies later that night, but after a fierce fight the next day, he commits suicide. The inset shows Tadanobu at the temple in Yoshino wearing Yoshitsune's armor. A handsome image of this legendary warrior and a fine subject for a collector interested in the samurai tradition.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13" x 8 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Vertical fold at side. A few small holes, repaired. Toning, slight soiling, a few creases, stain. Please see photos for details.