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.



1888
Color woodblock print; oban

n.d.
Color woodblock print
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
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).