The artwork, “Yukukawa Sanpei Munenori,” created by Utagawa Kuniyoshi circa 1847 to 1848, is a woodblock print measuring 37.9 by 25.7 centimeters. It belongs to the Ukiyo-e art movement and is part of the “Stories of the True Loyalty of the Faithful Samurai” series. The artwork is classified under the genre of illustration and is presently housed in the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, Massachusetts, United States.
The artwork features a dynamic depiction of Yukukawa Sanpei Munenori, a samurai, poised in a combative stance ready to unsheathe his sword. His attire includes traditional samurai armor and a patterned outfit, showcasing intricate designs and meticulous details, illustrative of Ukiyo-e style’s emphasis on bold outlines and vibrant colors. The background includes Japanese script, possibly providing context or a narrative to the illustration, enhancing the cultural and historical richness of the piece. The samurai’s determined expression and the flux of his movements convey a sense of vigilance and readiness, characteristic of the loyalty and valor celebrated in the series.
