Second Act
- Date:
- 1860, 4th lunar month
- Medium:
- Woodblock print (nishiki-e), ink and color on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 15.7 × 23.3 cm
- Source:
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
Description
The "Second Act" of the Chushingura (1860) covers the period of Lord Asano's disgrace and enforced seppuku after his attack on Kira Yoshinaka, and the subsequent dissolution of his domain, leaving his retainers without a lord. This act sets in motion the years-long conspiracy of the loyal retainers who would eventually avenge their master. Yoshitoshi's early treatment of the scene shows his emerging ability to capture the weight of institutional tragedy—the human cost of the feudal system's rigid codes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Second Act was created by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (月岡芳年) in 1860, 4th lunar month.
Second Act depicts figures, kabuki, and warriors.
Second Act measures 15.7 × 23.3 cm (Oban format).