Empress Jingū and Takeuchi no Sukune Fishing at Chikuzen

A hand-painted replica of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece Empress Jingū and Takeuchi no Sukune Fishing at Chikuzen, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.

"Empress Jingū and Takeuchi no Sukune Fishing at Chikuzen" is a woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. Yoshitoshi, who lived from 1839 to 1892, is celebrated for his innovative approach to ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th through 19th centuries. He is particularly noted for his ability to blend traditional themes with modern sensibilities, making his works highly influential during the Meiji period.

This particular print is part of Yoshitoshi's series "Tsuki hyakushi" (One Hundred Aspects of the Moon), which was published between 1885 and 1892. The series is one of Yoshitoshi's most famous works and consists of 100 prints that explore various themes related to the moon, drawing inspiration from Japanese and Chinese history, literature, and folklore.

The print depicts Empress Jingū, a legendary figure in Japanese history, who is said to have ruled as a regent following the death of her husband, Emperor Chūai, in the early 3rd century. Although her historical existence is debated, she is a prominent figure in Japanese mythology and is often credited with leading a successful military expedition to Korea. In the print, she is accompanied by Takeuchi no Sukune, a loyal courtier and legendary statesman who served under several emperors. He is often depicted as a wise and faithful advisor, and his presence in the artwork underscores his historical significance.

The scene is set in Chikuzen, an ancient province located in what is now Fukuoka Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. The choice of location is significant, as it is associated with Empress Jingū's legendary campaign across the sea. The act of fishing in the print may symbolize the gathering of resources or knowledge, a theme that resonates with the legendary accounts of Jingū's strategic acumen and leadership.

Yoshitoshi's artistic style in this print is characterized by his use of vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, which capture the viewer's attention and convey a sense of movement and drama. His attention to detail and ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language are evident, reflecting his mastery of the woodblock printing technique.

The "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon" series, including this print, represents a culmination of Yoshitoshi's artistic development. It showcases his ability to blend traditional Japanese themes with Western artistic influences, which were becoming increasingly prevalent during the Meiji era. This fusion of styles is evident in the realistic portrayal of figures and the use of perspective, which were less common in earlier ukiyo-e works.

Overall, "Empress Jingū and Takeuchi no Sukune Fishing at Chikuzen" is a testament to Yoshitoshi's skill as an artist and his ability to capture the imagination of his audience. The print not only reflects the rich tapestry of Japanese mythology and history but also serves as a window into the cultural and artistic transitions occurring in Japan during the late 19th century. Through this work, Yoshitoshi continues to be celebrated as one of the last great masters of the ukiyo-e tradition, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to be appreciated by art enthusiasts and historians alike.