The artwork titled “Yazama Jûjirô Motooki” was created by the esteemed artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi circa 1847-1848. This woodblock print belongs to the art movement known as Ukiyo-e and measures 37.8 x 25.7 cm. It is an illustration genre piece that forms part of the series “Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai.” Presently, the artwork is housed in the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
The artwork depicts a standing figure, likely a samurai, characterized by intricate detailing and vivid colors emblematic of Ukiyo-e prints. The figure is adorned in traditional Japanese attire, including a striking black and white haori with a distinct pattern, and blue, checkered hakama. Various elements of the samurai’s clothing, such as the red cord and the green-hilted katana, add to the richness of the illustration. The narrative aspect of the piece is enhanced by the presence of extensive Japanese text around the figure, indicating passages or stories pertinent to the character of Yazama Jûjirô Motooki. The overall composition showcases Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s mastery in conveying the loyalty and valor of the samurai, reinforcing the cultural and historical significance of the depicted scene.
