Hatchōtsubute Kiheiji’s Wife Yatsushiro with a Dog 1866

"Hatchōtsubute Kiheiji’s Wife Yatsushiro with a Dog" is a woodblock print by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi from 1866. The print depicts Yatsushiro, the wife of the famous outlaw Kiheiji, standing amongst numerous arrows that have missed her. Yoshitoshi’s artistic style reflects the dramatic and heroic themes of the "suikoden," a genre of Japanese literature and art inspired by the Chinese novel Water Margin. Yoshitoshi’s use of vivid colors and bold lines creates a sense of movement and drama, highlighting the strength and resilience of Yatsushiro. This print is a powerful example of the artist’s ability to capture the spirit of Japanese legends and folklore.