Nomi no Sukune Wrestling with Taima no Kehaya by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (Japan, 1839-1892). From the series Yoshitoshi's Warriors Trembling with Courage. Meiji Era Japanese woodblock print (Nishiki-e) ink on paper. Dated 1886 (2nd edition, after the 1st edition printed in 1885).

Curator's Note:

This work depicts what is considered to be the first ever bout of sumo wrestling, which is now Japan's national sport. The print shows Nomi no Sukune wrestling Taima no Kehaya. The story is told that during the reign of emperor Suinin in 23 B.C. Nomi no Sukune fought Taima who was considered to be a nobleman of tremendous strength and enormous stature. Nomi no Sukune however delivered devastating blows during this battle as he broke Taima's ribs with a firm kick to the chest and later his back which would lead to Taima's death the following day.

As the legend goes, Taima no Kehaya boasted that he was the strongest man “under the heavens." which insulted the Emperor Suinin who then commanded Nomi no Sukune to defeat him.

The current form of sumo, which is fought in a ring, came into being during the 16th century as a result of a tournament organized by the then principal warlord in Japan, Oda Nobunaga.

Size: 14" h x 9" w (approx.) (Oban size)
Condition: Excellent color and impression. Some foxing to top margin. Partial trimming to margins. Slight staining to left and right side margins. What looks to be small pinholes in right margin.