The artwork titled “Sakagaki Genzô Masakata” is a woodblock print created by the esteemed artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi around the years 1847 to 1848. It is part of the Ukiyo-e art movement, encompassing dimensions of 37.8 x 25.6 cm. This illustration is a component of the series “Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai.” Presently, the artwork resides in the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) located in Boston, Massachusetts.
In the artwork, a samurai, presumably Sakagaki Genzô Masakata, is depicted donned in traditional combat attire, including an intricate armor and a pair of swords at his side. The figure is portrayed with a determined expression, indicative of his readiness and resolve. The composition integrates handwritten texts around the central figure, which provide contextual narrative and serve as a testament to the historical and cultural significance of the depicted scene. The samurai’s pose, along with the meticulous detailing in his attire and weaponry, embodies the essence of loyalty and valor, key themes represented in the series. The aesthetic precision and vibrant coloration are characteristic of the woodblock print medium and the Ukiyo-e style, seamlessly combining both visual and narrative elements.
