Bingo Saburo Preparing to Carve a Message on a Tree, 1892 - Handsome depiction of the samurai Bingo Saburo (Kojima Bingo no Saburo Takanori) preparing to carve a Chinese poem on the trunk of a cherry tree. Takanori was a loyal supporter of the exiled Emperor Go-Daigo, and attempted to rescue him while he was being transported to a remote location. He was able to sneak into the camp, but could not reach the emperor, so according to legend, he left a poem of encouragement that only the emperor would understand to let him know that help was on the way. The next morning, the emperor read the verse when passing by, and was heartened by the message. Here, the warrior balances one foot along the base of the tree's trunk, his knife in hand, looking over his shoulder at the guards warming themselves around a bonfire below. Hazy clouds drift across the yellow full moon, and raindrops slant over the scene. A handsome, atmospheric design and a wonderful illustration of this famed event.

Artist - Nobukazu (1874 - 1944)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 26 7/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with lightweight board. Please see photos for details.