작품 상세

An antique original Japanese woodblock print by Tsukioka Kogyo (1869-1927) titled Yumi Yawata from the series One Hundred Nōh Plays (Nōgaku Hyakuban). This print illustrates a scene from the Noh play Yumi Yawata, which translates to The Bow of Hachiman. Kōgyō’s celebrated series Nōgaku Hyakuban (One Hundred Noh Plays) is a landmark publication documenting Japan’s most classical theatrical tradition with exceptional accuracy and elegance. This particular composition depicts two courtly warrior figures in formal Noh costume, each bearing bow and arrows, rendered with restrained elegance against a softly graduated ground. Their poised stances and ceremonial attire emphasize spiritual contemplation rather than martial action, reflecting the meditative character of classical Noh theater. The subject references Hachiman, the Shinto deity of war and archery, revered as a divine protector of warriors. In the play, martial symbolism is transformed into a ritual expression of faith, loyalty, and inner discipline—an interpretation that Kōgyo captures with subtle linework, muted color harmonies, and careful attention to textile patterning. This work exemplifies Kōgyo’s mature style and his pivotal role in documenting and preserving Noh performance traditions at a time when Japan was rapidly modernizing. His Nōgaku Hyakuban series remains the most comprehensive visual record of Noh theater produced in the Meiji era and is represented in major museum collections worldwide. This print is an original from the Taishō period, 1922-26. This print is double matted and framed under acrylic in a wood and gold trimmed frame. With frame, it measures 19 inches x 24.5 inches. This print was acquired from a Metro Washington DC estate.