Onna Kusunoki (The Woman Kusunoki) - Fascinating scene of the young boy Kusunoki Masatsura about to commit suicide, being stopped by his mother thrusting the end of a naginata at his chest. After his father Kusunoki Masashige's defeat and death at the Battle of Minatogawa, his son Masatsura considered killing himself, but his mother reminded him of his obligations to his family and the emperor, so he did not. The youth went on to become an important warrior, and his mother was regarded as the epitome of motherhood, a strong and virtuous woman. Here, the boy kneels on the floor clutching a knife wrapped in silk, looking up soberly at his mother, who reproaches him sternly. She wears an olive green floral kimono tucked into long red pants, her long hair flying out behind her as she lunges towards the boy. Behind them, an alcove holds ornate vases holding candles and lotus blossoms, and a low black lacquer table with a scroll atop it. An intriguing scene with fine line work and delicate embossed detail on the woman's white under robe, plus burnishing on the black lacquer table, the handle of the naginata, and the black lacquer trim on the wall panels.

Artist - Toshihide (1863 - 1925)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 18 3/8" + right margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels, backed with paper. Some prints have slight separation at ends of vertical centerfold, repaired, or a couple creases at edges. Please see photos for details.