Japanese Print "Inamura-Ga-Saki Moon at Daybreak" by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
Artist:Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
Title:Inamura-Ga-Saki Moon at Daybreak
Date:September 1886
Details:More information...
Source:Worcester Art Museum
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Description:
Loyal to the Emperor, Nitta Yoshisada (1301–38) offered his sword to the sea gods at the cape of Inamura-ga-saki, hoping they would lower the tides and grant his army safe passage to attack the opposing government’s stronghold at Kamakura. The dragonflies on his robes symbolize quick striking ability and signal his impending success. They also make reference to the Japanese islands, whose shape resembles a dragonfly’s body. The blackened area on the horizon caused by the oxidation of red lead pigments is suggestive of smoke-filled air and foreshadows the bloody battle to come at dawn.
