Comments - Incredible scene of the warrior Shirafuji Hikoshichiro (the real-life Hatakeyama Shigetada) destroying sacred books at a temple as the priests watch in horror. Shigetada initially fought in the Genpei War on the side of the Taira, but switched his allegiance to the Minamoto clan at the Battle of Dan-no-ura. He is shown standing before a large screen painted with wizened old Buddhist monks, gesturing angrily with one hand, ransacked books and overturned screens littering the floor around him. Several of the temple's monks kneel on the floor before him, with one at right throwing his hands out aghast while his nearby companion grins sheepishly and points to woven trunk on a shelf. The battle continues in the courtyard outside the temple at left, with warriors fighting alongside a lotus pond. An intriguing subject with wonderful detail in the interior furnishings and expressive faces.
Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)
Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 3/4" + margins as shown
Condition - Nice detail. Slight thinning along vertical fold at side of two panels, a few holes, repaired. Slight rubbing along folds, a few stains.
