L'assalto a Weihaiwei nella Tormenta" - Splendido Senso-e Epoca Meiji - Sculpture Washi paper (traditional Japanese mulberry paper) - Watanabe Yosai Nobukazu (1872-1944) - Japan - Meiji period (1868-1912)

Rare Original Ukiyo-e Triptych (1895) - Watanabe NOBUKAZU (1872-1944) - "Assault on Weihaiwei in the Storm" - Splendid Senso-e Meiji Epoch Sensibility

I present a lot of tremendous historical-collectible interest and with a very strong visual impact: an original woodblock triptych (Senso-e, war print) by the famous master Watanabe Nobukazu (also known as Yōsai Nobukazu, 1872–1944), printed in February 1895 (Meiji Era), coming from an inheritance.

The work depicts in three consecutive scenes, magnificently linked, the advance and assault of the Japanese troops on the Chinese fortress of Weihaiwei during a spectacular and dramatic snowstorm. Nobukazu, considered the best pupil of Yōshū Chikanobu, is famous in the world of Ukiyo-e for his anatomical vigor, the dynamism of military charges, and the expressive use of color. The panoramic composition divided into three blocks creates an extraordinary scenic effect, capable of arousing interest for both Asian-art and military-memorabilia collectors, and for interior-design lovers seeking an authentic and characterful piece from a bygone era.

Author: Watanabe Nobukazu / Yōsai Nobukazu (楊斎延一). On the right-hand sheet its autograph signature by the artist is clearly visible: "Yōsai Nobukazu hitsu" (楊斎延一 筆) accompanied by his distinctive red seal. Editorial Card and Dating: On the third sheet there is a rare editorial stamp in the shape of an ancient ritual tripod from the publisher Tsujioka Fumisuke (辻岡文助). It bears the Meiji 28 (1895) dating and the era’s Tokyo address. Historical Text: The descriptive cartouche at the top right describes the military action, literally reporting: "The two divisions advance and occupy the Weihaiwei fortress..." (二隊の...威海衛...占領...). The work is printed on high-quality traditional Japanese mulberry paper (washi), robust and fibrous, which has allowed perfect preservation of the original period pigments, including the matte white (gofun) used for the snow effect.

Original from 1895 (Meiji Period). Structure: Complete work in 3 adjoining blocks/pages.
• Size: Single sheet (Oban standard format) about 24 x 35.5 cm. Total visible dimensions of the work: 73 x 35.5 cm. Condition: Generally good. An antique piece, solid and with excellent color rendering, whose slight and natural signs of time testify to its authenticity and ultra-century charm. The described information is provided by antiquarians and online research (S.E. & O.)

The work is presented in a simple but aged frame, equipped with an original antique glass (whose imperfections and texture typical of period glass testify to its historicity). The frame does not appear to be contemporaneous but is dated. The frame and glass are offered as a protective courtesy and do not affect the appraisal value of the work. Shipping will be conducted via a well-known international express courier with sturdy packaging (even if purchased with glass). WARNING: transport companies do not insure breaks to period glass during transit. For this reason, and also due to the possibility of damage, immediately after payment the buyer is asked to send a message to confirm whether they wish the glass to be removed before shipment. If no communication is received, the shipment will include the glass; the seller assumes no responsibility for any damage to the glass or other parts during transport.