The artwork, titled “Yazama Kihei Mitsunobu,” was created by the esteemed artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi around 1847-1848. This woodblock print, belonging to the Ukiyo-e art movement, measures 36.5 x 25.3 cm. It falls under the genre of illustration and is part of the series “Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai.” Currently, this piece is housed in the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, Massachusetts.
The artwork depicts a dynamic and vividly colored figure against a backdrop of Japanese script. The subject, Yazama Kihei Mitsunobu, is shown in a bold and expressive stance, indicative of the strength and resolve emblematic of samurai loyalty. The figure is detailed with intricate patterns on his clothing, including a tightly wrapped headband, a strikingly patterned vest, and vibrant blue pants with elaborate designs. In his hand, he brandishes a long weapon, evoking a sense of readiness for action. The background contains rich, flowing calligraphy that provides a narrative context to the illustration, further immersing the viewer in the legendary stories of the faithful samurai. Through its composition and detail, this artwork beautifully represents the Ukiyo-e tradition and the timeless tales of honor and bravery in Japanese culture.
