Minamoto Tametomo, from the series The Unofficial History of Japan (Nihon gaishi no uchi)
- Series:
- The Unofficial History of Japan
- Date:
- 1884 (Meiji 17)
- Medium:
- Woodblock print (nishiki-e): ink, color, and metallic pigments on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 37.6 × 25.1 cm
- Source:
- Harvard Art Museums
Description
Minamoto Tametomo — the legendary 12th-century archer whose superhuman strength and military prowess made him a favourite of Edo and Meiji popular culture — appears in this 1884 nishiki-e from the Nihon gaishi no uchi (Unofficial History of Japan) series. Kiyochika renders Tametomo in full warrior regalia with the metallic pigments (kirakiri) that shimmer in the composition's armour and weapons, adding physical lustre to the figure's legendary invincibility. The print demonstrates Kiyochika's engagement with classical warrior history alongside his contemporary documentary work.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Minamoto Tametomo, from the series The Unofficial History of Japan (Nihon gaishi no uchi) was created by Kobayashi Kiyochika (小林清親) in 1884 (Meiji 17).
Yes — Minamoto Tametomo, from the series The Unofficial History of Japan (Nihon gaishi no uchi) is part of the The Unofficial History of Japan series by Kobayashi Kiyochika.
Minamoto Tametomo, from the series The Unofficial History of Japan (Nihon gaishi no uchi) depicts figures, warriors, and portraits.
Minamoto Tametomo, from the series The Unofficial History of Japan (Nihon gaishi no uchi) measures 37.6 × 25.1 cm (Oban format).