Title : The Night Attack, Chüshingura Act 11

Artist : Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Date : c. 1830 - 1834

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : This famous print by Kuniyoshi illustrates a dramatic moment in the last act of the drama Chüshingura. This play was first performed in Edo in 1748, and was based on events that actually occurred in 1701. In the play 47 rönin, or masterless samurai, band together to avenge the forced suicide of the leader, the feudal lord Asano. Because the shögunal government did not allow current events to be depicted onstage, the play was set in the 14th century. In this scene, the rönin slip over the wall of their enemy's mansion in moonlight as they prepare to avenge their master's death. The design effectively incorporates deep recession in depth through architectural perspective and the use of dramatic shadows. Part of the success of this print is the way in which it conveys the suspense of a dangerous mission carried out on a cold, wintry night. (from Uki-e exhibition 2004: June-August)

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