Artwork

土佐派屋島合戦図屏風|The Battle of Yashima, from The Tale of the Heike (Heike monogatari)

土佐派屋島合戦図屏風|The Battle of Yashima, from The Tale of the Heike (Heike monogatari) is an ink painting by the Baroque artist Tosa School. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

A six-panel folding screen depicting a pivotal battle from The Tale of the Heike, created by the Tosa School around 1650, using ink, color, gold, and gold leaf on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The screen illustrates the Battle of Yashima, a chaotic scene of combat on land and water, featuring figures in traditional Japanese attire armed with swords, bows, and arrows, set against a backdrop of water and distant buildings.

Technique & Style

The painting combines ink, color, and gold leaf on paper, achieving depth and texture; the gold leaf adds luxury and opulence.

History & Provenance

Created by the Tosa School circa 1650, the screen is now held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.