Chūshingura e-kyōdai (Picture Brothers of the Treasury of Loyal Retainers)
Cartographer / Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III)
Date Created: c. 1850
Medium: Color woodblock print (nishiki-e) on paper
Physical Dimensions: 9.6 × 13.7 in
Geographic Scope: Edo (Tokyo), Japan
Archive Catalog ID: multi1-img-2273
Provenance: The Dr. Joseph R. Rubini Archive
Collection: Japanese Woodblock Prints & Meiji Triptychs
This dramatic mid-nineteenth-century woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) belongs to the series Chūshingura e-kyōdai ('Picture Brothers of the Chūshingura'). The central composition depicts figures dressed in the iconic dark blue haori decorated with bold white saw-tooth (dandara) mountain patterns, directly referencing the theatrical costumes worn by the 47 Ronin during their famous night raid. The main figures engage in an intense, physical struggle while wearing white headcloths (zukin), creating a striking dynamic full of kinetic energy and theatrical emotion. In the upper left circular inset (kagamie), a miniature dramatic scene depicts a key dramatic moment from the Kabuki adaptation of the revenge of the Loyal Retainers, featuring samurai in night-attack attire engaged in combat. To the right, a tall pile of tatami mats with small sake or tea cups on top anchors the background. Printed with rich indigo dyes, fine detailing on textiles, and crisp line work, this sheet exemplifies the peak of late Edo period ukiyo-e printmaking.
Condition: Vibrant color impression with deep indigo blues and clear seal impressions.. Minor age-toning and light handling wear around the outer margins.. Single sheet ukiyo-e print, unmounted with full woodblock borders visible.




