
Endō Kiemon Masatada with Assailant
A hand-painted replica of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece Endō Kiemon Masatada with Assailant, 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.
"Endō Kiemon Masatada with Assailant" is a woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839–1892), one of the last great masters of the ukiyo-e tradition. This artwork is part of Yoshitoshi's celebrated series New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts (Shinkei Sanjūrokkaisen), which was published between 1889 and 1892. The series is known for its dramatic and imaginative depictions of supernatural tales, historical events, and legendary figures from Japanese folklore and history.
The print portrays Endō Kiemon Masatada, a historical figure, in a moment of intense confrontation with an assailant. Yoshitoshi's work is characterized by its dynamic composition, vivid colors, and intricate details, all of which are evident in this piece. The scene captures a sense of tension and movement, showcasing Yoshitoshi's ability to convey emotion and drama through his art. The background and setting are rendered with atmospheric effects, enhancing the overall impact of the image.
As with many of Yoshitoshi's works, this print reflects the artist's interest in exploring themes of bravery, conflict, and the supernatural. While the exact historical context of the depicted event is not fully documented, the inclusion of Endō Kiemon Masatada suggests a connection to samurai culture and the martial values of feudal Japan. Yoshitoshi often drew inspiration from historical records, kabuki theater, and oral traditions, blending these sources to create compelling visual narratives.
This print exemplifies Yoshitoshi's late-career style, which is marked by a refined use of color, innovative compositions, and a focus on psychological depth. By the time this series was created, the ukiyo-e tradition was in decline due to the rise of modern printing techniques and changing tastes in Japan. Nevertheless, Yoshitoshi's works, including "Endō Kiemon Masatada with Assailant," are celebrated for their artistic excellence and historical significance, bridging the gap between traditional Japanese art and the modern era.
Today, Yoshitoshi's prints are highly regarded by collectors and scholars, and they continue to be studied for their artistic and cultural value. "Endō Kiemon Masatada with Assailant" remains a striking example of his ability to merge historical storytelling with visual artistry.