Utagawa Yoshiiku, Matazo Kimura (1867)

Artist: Utagawa Yoshiiku (歌川芳幾, 1833–1904)
Title: Kimura Matazō Masakuni (木村又蔵正国), from the series Taiheiki Eiyūden (太平記英勇伝)
Medium: Nishiki-e woodblock print
Year: 1867
Edition: Original Edo-period impression
Image size: approx. 24 × 18 cm
Paper size: approx. 24 × 18 cm (chūban format)
Condition: Good; age toning and minor wear consistent with period
Signed: Signed in block by the artist
Notes: A dramatic original warrior print by Utagawa Yoshiiku from his celebrated late Edo series Heroes of the Taiheiki. The subject, Kimura Matazō Masakuni, is shown in the heat of battle, sword raised overhead while clutching the severed head of an enemy—an image of ferocity and absolute resolve. Richly printed in strong greens, reds, and blues, the composition reflects Yoshiiku’s inheritance from his teacher Kuniyoshi, combining dense patterning, theatrical movement, and psychological force. Printed in 1867, at the very end of the Edo period, this work stands as a vivid example of late ukiyo-e warrior imagery (musha-e) at its most dynamic.