Number
#37
Date
09/1886
Title (Kanji)
Title (Rōmaji)
Description
Lord Ko Moronao (d. 1351) was the chief retainer, and later Shitsuji (Shogun’s Deputy) of shogun Ashikaga no Takauji (1305-1358). He is remembered in the Taiheiki, a 14th century epic that details the war between Ashikaga no Takauji and then emperor Go-Daigo. The defeat of Go-Daigo resulted in the establishment of the Ashikaga shogunate (1336-1573). Moronao had a reputation for debauchery. In a story from the Taiheiki, Moronao desired the beautiful wife (Lady Kaoyo) of an official, En’ya Takasada. He accused En’ya of treason and later had both En’ya and Lady Kaoyo executed. Here, he hides in the bushes, spying upon Kaoyo.
In the 18th century play, Chūshingura, the principle characters were given alternate names to avoid the sensors. Kira was represented by Moronao, and Asano by En’ya.
Additional information
| Year Published | 1886 |
|---|---|
| Size | Ōban |
| Signed | Yoshitoshi, Yoshitoshi giga |
| Seals | Taiso, Yoshitoshi, Yoshitoshi no in |
| Subjects | Architecture, Men, Plants, Theater/Noh/Kabuki, Women |
| Editions | First |
| Publisher | Akiyama Buemon |
| Block Carvers | Esen, Naoyama, Nigouchi Enkatsu, Unknown, Yamamoto, Yoshihisa |
