Utagawa Kuniyoshi: Sumino Juheiji Tsugufusa, 1847
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Description
This print shows one of the 47 Samurai loyal to Lord Asano Takumi-no-Kami Naganori of Ako. All 47 took revenge for their lord's death by killing the family responsible for it. 46 of these samurai subsequently and proudly committed ritual suicide, seppuku. It is said that one of them was spared to make sure that lord Asano’s story and that of his faithful samurai would survive. The story of the faithful samurai is one of the most popular tales in Japan. Following real events, this is representative of the idea of honour, which plays a large part even in contemporary Japanese society. Sumino Juuheiji Tsugufusa is depicted in this print. His mother knew of the plans to attack Moronao, the man responsible for her son’s former lord’s death, and also knew that her son would have to commit seppuku, ritual suicide, once his mission was over. After cheerfully spending a day with him, she took her own life, which made Moronao not only Tsugufusa's lord’s enemy, but also his mother’s. Kuniyoshi’s print shows the moment when Tsugufusa charges into Moronao’s bedroom only to discover Moronao gone, but the bed still warm. The print captures the fury and motion of that moment, showing Tsugugusa’s drive to charge ahead, seeking revenge.
Utagawa Kuniyoshi was a Japanese painter and print designer considered one of the last great masters of the ukiyo-e style during the 19th century. The genres of his work ranged from landscapes to Kabuki actors and more, and he often incorporated aspects of Western representation in his designs. The term ukiyo-e translates to "pictures of the floating world" and refers to a genre of Japanese art with a wide span of imagery such as kabuki actors, folk tales, landscapes, and even erotica. This movement was critical in forming the Western perception of Japanese art.
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Condition
The print contains some pinholes that have been filled in. The corners at the top have been restored.
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Utagawa Kuniyoshi: Sumino Juheiji Tsugufusa, 1847
Estimate $250 - $400
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