Artist: Utagawa Yoshitora (1786-1865)
Repository: Black Print Collection, Art History Dept., Cummings Art Center, Connecticut College, New London
Date: 1853-1859
Size: 34×24 cm
Material: Ink on paper, color woodcut
Culture: Japan
Description: This single-panel work, originally belonging to a triptych, depicts a samurai on top of a horse, above another Samurai below holding two swords. The samurai, in elaborate fashion, is riding a red horse that is also ornately decorated. In the background, you can see the faintest portion of a structure, depicting that the two are fighting in an urbanized area. The samurai riding on the horse is adorned with a traditional crown and is adorned with traditional samurai clothing. The rich colors of this print express the boldness and intensity of the situation being portrayed. The elusiveness of this print begins with the fact that this panel is untitled, therefore, the title has been given for the purposes of this entry.
Analysis: Samurai are a popular topic depicted in Japanese painting given their significance in the history of Japan. They are fierce warriors, known for their ornate clothing and fighting ability. To depict a samurai is to depict the strength, resilience, and power of the Japanese people. Also, horses are commonly featured as well and could be red in this print to depict the luck of having a good horse to help you in fighting.
References:
Connecticut College Japanese Print Collection
Artstor: https://library.artstor.org/#/asset/CONNASIAN_106310758468;prevRouteTS=1632425219676
