The Splendid Deed of the Brave Soldier Shirakami

January 1895

Not on view

This propaganda print depicts a scene from the Sino-Japanese War, fought in 1894–95 over control of Korea. Despite having been hit and thrown backward, the Japanese bugler Shirakami Genjiro (1869–1894) clings to his instrument, an indication of his loyalty and bravery. Shirakami drowned in the war and was honored as a national hero. Printmakers like Migita Toshihide, disciples of traditional ukiyo-e artists, made pictures of historical and contemporary overseas battles for a domestic audience. Their striking imagery glorified the deaths of individuals, promoting the idea of self-sacrifice for the country.

Artwork Details

右田年英画　「勇卒白神氏之美談」
Title: The Splendid Deed of the Brave Soldier Shirakami
Artist: Migita Toshihide (Japanese, 1863–1925)
Period: Meiji period (1868–1912)
Date: January 1895
Culture: Japan
Medium: Triptych of woodblock prints; ink and color on paper
Dimensions: Oban triptych
Classification: Prints
Credit Line: Gift of Lincoln Kirstein, 1959
Object Number: JP3262
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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