Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)
Click here to view image full size.
An original painting showing what is probably the most famous encounter in Japanese mythology: The scene is evening on Gojo Bridge in Kyoto where the twenty year old Benkei ambushes samurai to steal their swords. He is shown approaching the flute-playing Yoshitsune. A fight ensues which Yoshitsune wins due to his leaping ability taught to him by the mountain tengu. Yoshitsune pardons Benkei and they become loyal friends. This painting, in shades of sumi, beautifully evokes the crepuscular gloom. On silk, 7 x 9.5 in; 17.75 x 24.1 cms. Painted c late 1870s. Signed Yoshitoshi with Taiso seal.
Status: Sold