The Patrolman Matsui Yasumichi Prevents a Double Suicide 1875

This woodblock print by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, titled "The Patrolman Matsui Yasumichi Prevents a Double Suicide," depicts a dramatic scene set under a large, pale moon. A young couple, dressed in traditional Japanese attire, is caught in a moment of despair as the woman attempts to commit suicide. However, a watchful patrolman, Matsui Yasumichi, intervenes to save the couple from their tragic fate. The scene highlights the importance of social responsibility and emphasizes the role of law enforcement in preventing such acts. Yoshitoshi's use of vibrant colors and dynamic composition contribute to the powerful and evocative nature of this 1875 piece, capturing the essence of a critical moment in Japanese history.