Kiyochika 小林: Minamoto no Yoshitsune during the Night Attack at Horikawa Mansion

Artist: Kobayashi Kiyochika 小林清親 (1847-1915)

Title:  Minamoto no Yoshitsune at the Night Attack at Horikawa Mansion

Series: History of Japan (Nihon gaishi no uchi) Date:  ca. 1879

Minamoto no Yoshitsune is awakened from his slumber by two of his retainers, who bear the news of a surprise night attack. One crouches, reporting of the attack, while the second one draws his bow, about to shoot it into the night. We see that arrows have landed on the outside verandah already. Yoshitsune grabs his katana with one hand, while one of his children seems to be tossing him the upper portion of his samurai armor to put on. A Lady of the house is at left, urging  quickness. We see the box with Yoshitune’s armor at left, with one  battle glove atop the box, as well as his battle helmet.

Kiyochika designed few narrative warrior triptychs, but this series contains numerous strong designs. Yoshitsune is one of Japan's best known and most beloved historical warrior figures.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition. Unbacked and untrimmed. Minor wrinkles.

Dimensions: ôban triptych (each sheet 37.5 x 25 cm)
Publisher: Matsuki Heikichi
Signature: Hoensha Kiyochika hitsu

SKU: KYC481