The artwork entitled “Ushioda Masanojô Takanori,” created by the artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi circa 1847-1848 in Edo (present-day Tokyo), Japan, is a woodblock print that belongs to the Ukiyo-e art movement. Measuring 36.6 x 25.3 cm, this illustration is part of the series “Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai” and is currently located at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, MA, US.
The artwork depicts a dynamic and intense scene, characteristic of Kuniyoshi’s vivid and intricate style. It portrays a samurai, likely Ushioda Masanojô Takanori, who is depicted in a dramatic stance with a stern expression. The samurai is adorned in traditional attire, including patterned armor and distinctive garments. The figure is caught in the act of pulling an arrow from his mouth, adding a sense of movement and resolve to the piece. The background features an extensive array of Japanese characters, likely narrating the story or providing context about the depicted samurai’s loyalty and valor. The intricate detailing of the samurai’s clothing, weaponry, and the expressive elements underscore the high level of craftsmanship associated with Ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
