Samanosuke Mitsutoshi with Fox Fires 1865

This woodblock print by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, titled "Samanosuke Mitsutoshi with Fox Fires," depicts a dramatic scene from Japanese folklore. The samurai Samanosuke Mitsutoshi is depicted in a dark, shadowy landscape, illuminated only by the ethereal glow of fox fire, also known as "kitsune-bi," in the distance. The image is a captivating example of Yoshitoshi’s mastery of ukiyo-e, the traditional style of Japanese woodblock printing, with its bold lines, vivid colors, and dynamic composition. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail creates a sense of realism and depth, making the scene both visually striking and emotionally resonant.