Comments - Great image from the Zenkunen or Former Nine Year's War of Hachimantaro Yoshiie (Minamoto no Yoshiie) chasing his enemy, Abe no Sadato along the Koromo River after forcing him from his castle there. According to legend, the pair famously engaged in a renga or linked verse exchange during the pursuit, after which Yoshiie allowed Sadato to escape. At left, Sadato looks back over his shoulder at his pursuer. In the center, Yoshiie gallops along on a dark gray horse, grasping a bow and arrow in one hand while holding the reins with the other. He wears a fine suit of armor with an image of the Buddhist deity Fudo Myoo on the chest plate, over a red brocade robe and pants, his helmet topped with a dragon. Two barefoot samurai follow hurry past the tree behind him, one carrying a fluttering standard while the other holds a spear. The Koromo River can be seen rushing over the falls in the distance. A handsome illustration of this legendary episode, nicely composed and wonderfully detailed.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Horizontal centerfold. A couple small repairs, a few creases and stains. Please see photos for details