The artwork titled “Kataoka Dengoemon Takafusa” is a woodblock print created by the renowned artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi around the years 1847 to 1848. This piece, belonging to the Ukiyo-e art movement, is part of the series “Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai” and illustrates a genre painting and illustration. Measuring 36.3 x 25 cm, it is housed in the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, Massachusetts, United States.
The artwork depicts a dynamic figure dressed in a traditional samurai attire, indicating a strong connection to Japanese culture and history. The samurai, identified as Kataoka Dengoemon Takafusa, is portrayed in a moment of contemplation, gripping his sword with a firm yet thoughtful expression. The detailed patterns on his garment and the meticulous rendering of his armor showcase Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s exceptional skill in woodblock printing. The illustration is accompanied by Japanese script, likely narrating part of the samurai’s story, highlighting the true loyalty and valor attributed to the historical figure. The vivid colors and intricate design epitomize the Ukiyo-e style, creating a captivating visual narrative that is both artistically impressive and historically significant.
