Legend of Taishi, Scene 2 (Taishiden nidanme), from the series "Famous Scenes from Japanese Puppet Plays (Yamato irotake)" c. 1705 - 1706

"Legend of Taishi, Scene 2" is a woodblock print made by Okumura Masanobu in eighteenth-century Japan. During this time, printmaking was popular amongst the merchant classes, depicting a range of subjects, from landscapes to the lives of courtesans. This print comes from a series based on Japanese puppet plays. It portrays a scene of intense conflict, with figures entangled in a struggle; notice the fallen men with the assertive figure standing over them, sword in hand. The black and white lines create a sense of drama and tension, drawing the viewer into the heart of the story. In the cultural context of Edo-period Japan, the print reflects the increasing interest in popular entertainment and the stories that resonated with urban audiences. Masanobu’s print offers a glimpse into the performative and visual culture of his time. The artist successfully captures a moment of high drama, inviting us to reflect on the narratives that captivate our imagination.