Title : Kanjinchö

Artist : Toyohara Kunichika

Date : 1893

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : Kanjinchö, a drama inspired by the Yoshitsune legends, is one of eighteen celebrated Kabuki plays. It evoked deep sympathy from the audience and helped immortalize Yoshitsune as one of the most beloved tragic heroes in Japanese history. Fleeing the manhunt ordered by his brother Yoritomo, Yoshitsune, accompanied by a handful of followers disguised as yamabushi (mountain priests), reaches the Ataka Barrier, only to be recognized by the barrier keeper, Togashi. In one of the most dramatic moments of the play, Benkei snatches Yoshitsune's staff and furiously beats his master in order to allay Togashi's suspicion. In a classic example of the Kabuki theme of giri (sense of duty) in conflict with ninjö (human sympathy), Togashi, deeply moved by Benkei's loyalty and agony, lets the party cross the barrier and offers wine to the wounded Yoshitsune, perfectly aware of the consequences of defying Yoritomo's order. After they have safely crossed the barrier, there is an emotional scene in which Benkei tearfully begs his master's forgiveness. Yoshitsune, also weeping, thanks Benkei and laments his tragic fate. In this print, Kunichika vividly portrays the famous Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danj ürö IX (1839-1903) in the role of Benkei, recognizable here by his small black cap and the checkered pattern on his robe.

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