100 Aspects of the Moon # 65 by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

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

Woodblock Prints Title: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon # 65 Katada Bay moon (Katadaura no tsuki)

1st Publication: June 1888

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

Date of this edition: June 1888

Publisher: Akiyama Buemon.

Condition: Backed on an acid free album page, else very fine Excellent colors and impression, very good overall condition.

More about this print: In a scene from the Kabuki play Katada ochi (Escaping to Katada), Saito Kuranosuke leads his horse along the shores of Lake Biwa. He looks back as if to make sure that they are not being followed. The straw sandals worn by the horse also indicate that this is a journey into secrecy.

After the death of Akechi Mitsuhide in 1582 (Print #19), Saito Kuranosuke and his son Toshimitsu (#8) flee to Katada Bay on Lake Biwa. Kuranosuke falls ill and hides in the house of his nurse. He is eventually caught and executed. His son is allowed to live, and becomes a monk.

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.