100 Aspects of the Moon # 83 by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Artist: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (Taiso) (1839-1892)

Woodblock Prints Title: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon # 83 General Akashi Gidayu

1st Publication: April 1890

Size: Oban; 13-1/2" x 9-1/4" (34 x 23.5 cm)

Date of this edition: April 1890

Publisher: Akiyama Buemon.

Condition: Backed on an acid free album page, left margin trimmed affecting the seals, else very fine. Excellent colors and impression, good overall condition.

More about this print: Akashi Gidayu was a general under Akechi Mitsuhide (Print #8, and #19). After Mitsuhide had killed Oda Nobunaga in 1582, he sent Gidayu to face the troops that remained loyal to Nobunaga. However, Gidayu was defeated at Amagasaki, a seaside village in present-day Hyogo Prefecture. Remorseful about his failure he disobeys his lord, and is about to commit suicide. His death poem reads: "As I am about to enter the ranks of those who disobey - ever more brightly shines the moon of the summer night."

Pictures: Pictures are taken outdoor, in the shade, to reflect true colors, without any enhancements of any kind. The last picture is taken indoor, with a light behind the print, to reveal the exact paper grain, holes if any, or other possible flaws.