Gunner Private First Class Sawagashira Unosuke …
by Ogata Gekko
- Date:
- January 1895
- Medium:
- Woodblock print (nishiki-e), ink and color on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 36 × 24.8 cm
- Source:
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
Description
The 1895 print of Gunner Private First Class Sawagashira Unosuke extends the series of individual heroic portraits to the lowest ranks—the common soldier's bravery given the same commemorative treatment as the officer. The gunner's technical role, operating artillery at close quarters during the assault on fortified positions, involved particular danger, and the print's subject would be shown at his gun or in the act of firing, the artillery weapon adding industrial-era technology to the traditional warrior imagery.
More Prints by Ogata Gekko
MORNING GLORIES AT IRIYA, TOKYO
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Nippon-damashii, Kyokaku 日本魂 侠客 / Gekko zuihitsu 月耕随筆
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Onodera Koemon Hidetomi 小野寺幸右衛門秀富 / Gishi shijushichi zu 義士四十七図
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Beauties Harvesting Bracken, from the series Gekkō’s Miscellaney
c. 1886–1899
Woodblock print, ink and color on paper
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Frequently Asked Questions
Gunner Private First Class Sawagashira Unosuke … was created by Ogata Gekko (尾形月耕) in January 1895.
Gunner Private First Class Sawagashira Unosuke … depicts figures, warriors, and portraits.
Gunner Private First Class Sawagashira Unosuke … measures 36 × 24.8 cm (Oban format).