The "Fourth Act" belongs to a set of prints depicting scenes from the Chushingura, the dramatic retelling of the forty-seven ronin vendetta. Produced in 1860 during Yoshitoshi's apprenticeship period, this print shows his early command of theatrical subject matter, capturing the pivotal confrontation of Act Four when Lord Asano attacks the court official Kira within the shogun's palace. The Chushingura remained one of the most popular subjects in all of [ukiyo-e](/glossary/ukiyo-e), its themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and vengeance resonating deeply with Edo-period audiences.



1888
Color woodblock print; oban

n.d.
Color woodblock print
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Fourth Act was created by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (月岡芳年) in 1860, 4th lunar month.
Fourth Act depicts figures, kabuki, and warriors.
Fourth Act measures 15.9 × 23.5 cm (Oban format).