Yoshitoshi (1839 – 1892), “Ushiwaka and Benkei on Gojo Bridge (Gikeiki Gojobashi no zu)”

Notes: Early state with mist and halo surrounding the full moon. Color variations in the mountains. This impression is unlike any other illustrated example: The moon does not have a printed outline and there are delicately wiped clouds across it. The story of Benkei needing one more blade to accomplish an invincible weapon, taken from samurai attempting to cross the bridge. One of Yoshitoshi’s finest designs.