Yoshitoshi 芳年: Saigo Takamori About to Commit Seppuku at Sea 西郷隆盛切腹図 (Sold)

Artist: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi  芳年 (1839-1892)
Title: Saigo Takamori About to Commit Seppuku  西郷隆盛切腹図
Date: 1877, 10th Month.

The end has arrived for Saigo Takamori, as he has fought his last battle at Kagoshima and now prepares to take his life. This is considered a fictionalized account, but it is very dramatic and beautiful design nonetheless. At left we see lightning or explosions in the sky surrounding other ships at sea; the waves are beautifully rendered. Takamori has opened his jacket and  sits before his knife, ready to die with honor via seppuku. His two men are resigned but resolute next to him. The title is “Saigô Takamori Seppuku no zu”. Yoshitoshi had great sympathy for Saigo Takamori, who led the samurai against the Imperial forces during the Satsuma Rebellion of 1877.

Condition: Excellent impression and color; very good condition. Backed, with some trimming.
Dimensions: ôban triptych 36 x 72 cm
Literature: See Philadelphia Museum of Art Collection
Signature: Oju Taiso Yoshitoshi

SKU: YOT903