Fourth Act
- Date:
- 1860, 4th lunar month
- Medium:
- Woodblock print (nishiki-e), ink and color on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 15.9 × 23.5 cm
- Source:
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
Description
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, its themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and vengeance resonating deeply with Edo-period audiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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).