The Great Conference on the Conquest of Korea

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

1882

The Great Conference on the Conquest of Korea by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, 1882

Yoshitoshi, often called the 'Last Great Master' of ukiyo-e, captures a tense moment in Japanese history with this dramatic triptych depicting the legendary war council before the 1592 invasion of Korea. The central figure, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, sits elevated and imposing in black robes, while fierce samurai lords in elaborate, patterned armor gather below to receive their orders. Created in 1882 during a period of rising Japanese nationalism, the piece masterfully blends historical drama with bold, graphic storytelling. The intricate patterns on the samurai's robes, like the chrysanthemum crests, aren't just decorative—they identify specific powerful clans ready for battle.

Technique
woodblock print
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