The Powerful Thief Kobayashi Masashichi Fighting Policemen 1875

This 1875 woodblock print by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi depicts a scene of intense action and suspense. The powerful thief, Kobayashi Masashichi, is shown fighting off three policemen with a sword, illustrating the tumultuous period of Japan's transition from feudalism to modernization. Yoshitoshi's signature bold lines and vibrant colors bring this dramatic tale of crime and conflict to life. The print is a testament to the artist's mastery of ukiyo-e, the traditional Japanese art of woodblock printing, which enjoyed immense popularity in the 19th century.