The Young Cherry Trees at Suma Temple in Harima Province, 1864

Handsome scene Minamoto no Yoshitsune and his retainers gathered under the cherry trees at Suma to erect a signpost after the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani on March 21, 1184. The warrior monk Benkei sits on the ground at lower left, the signboard in one hand and a brush in the other as he writes the inscription on it. Yoshitsune sits on a stool in the center, looking over his shoulder with a stern expression. The samurai sit quietly on the ground nearby, watching with angry expressions. Pink and white cherry blossoms frame a view of the sea beyond. A great early Yoshitoshi subject with fine detail in the expressive faces and armor, including burnishing in Benkei's armor and black cap.

29" x 14 1/4" + margins as shown

With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Some spotting and staining in subject as shown. Some rubbing and soiling at edges. A crease at left edge. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.