Tomoe Gozen, Wife of Kiso Yoshinaka, Defeating Uchida Saburō
A hand-painted replica of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece Tomoe Gozen, Wife of Kiso Yoshinaka, Defeating Uchida Saburō, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Tomoe Gozen, Wife of Kiso Yoshinaka, Defeating Uchida Saburō" is a woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839–1892). This artwork is part of Yoshitoshi's celebrated series "New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts" (Shinkei Sanjūrokkaisen), which was published between 1889 and 1892. The series features supernatural and historical themes, often blending folklore, history, and dramatic storytelling.
The print depicts Tomoe Gozen, a legendary female samurai from the late Heian period (794–1185), who is said to have served under Minamoto no Yoshinaka, also known as Kiso Yoshinaka. Tomoe Gozen is celebrated in Japanese history and literature for her exceptional beauty, courage, and martial prowess. She is often portrayed as a symbol of strength and loyalty.
In this particular artwork, Yoshitoshi illustrates Tomoe Gozen in the act of defeating Uchida Saburō, a warrior who opposed her lord, Kiso Yoshinaka. The scene captures the intensity of battle, with Tomoe Gozen wielding a weapon and demonstrating her combat skills. Yoshitoshi's use of vivid colors, dynamic composition, and intricate details brings the moment to life, emphasizing both the physical action and the emotional weight of the encounter.
As with many of Yoshitoshi's works, this print reflects the artist's interest in historical and legendary figures, as well as his ability to convey drama and movement through the medium of woodblock printing. It also highlights the enduring appeal of Tomoe Gozen as a cultural icon in Japan, celebrated for her bravery and skill in a male-dominated era.
While the historical accuracy of Tomoe Gozen's life and deeds remains a subject of debate among scholars, her story has been immortalized in various literary and artistic works, including Yoshitoshi's print. This artwork serves as a testament to her enduring legacy and the fascination with her character in Japanese culture.
