Ushiwakamaru, Son of Distinguished Family and Later Iyo-no-kami Minamoto Yoshitsune and Saitō Musashibō Benkei
- Date:
- October 1878
- Medium:
- Woodblock print (nishiki-e), ink and color on paper
- Format:
- Oban
- Dimensions:
- 36.2 × 24 cm
- Source:
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
Description
"Ushiwakamaru and Saitō Musashibō Benkei" (October 1878) depicts the legendary encounter on the Gojō Bridge, here presented as a formal portrait of both figures rather than a scene of active combat—allowing Yoshitoshi to characterize the two through bearing and expression rather than action. The young Ushiwakamaru (later the warrior-general Yoshitsune) stands with the casual confidence of a martial prodigy, while the massive Benkei radiates the powerful loyalty that would define his legendary devotion to his new master. The print captures the moment of recognizing in each other an equal and a partner.
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Featured in Collections
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ushiwakamaru, Son of Distinguished Family and Later Iyo-no-kami Minamoto Yoshitsune and Saitō Musashibō Benkei was created by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (月岡芳年) in October 1878.
Ushiwakamaru, Son of Distinguished Family and Later Iyo-no-kami Minamoto Yoshitsune and Saitō Musashibō Benkei depicts temples & shrines, warriors, and daily life.
Ushiwakamaru, Son of Distinguished Family and Later Iyo-no-kami Minamoto Yoshitsune and Saitō Musashibō Benkei measures 36.2 × 24 cm (Oban format).