Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a rare and highly dramatic five-panel woodblock print (pentaptych) by Utagawa Yoshitsuya, a prominent student of the legendary master Kuniyoshi. It depicts a chaotic, supernatural battle scene filled with Buddhist figures, warriors, and mythological demons (oni) rendered in the dynamic ukiyo-e style.
Story
Created in 19th-century Edo, this print served as the action cinema of its day, capturing a legendary clash of Buddhist deities and samurai. Yoshitsuya used these fantastical, demon-slaying narratives to thrill audiences under strict government censorship.
Maker / Origin
Utagawa Yoshitsuya (1822–1866) was one of the most talented pupils of Utagawa Kuniyoshi, inheriting his master's genius for depicting warriors, ghosts, and mythical beasts. He became particularly famous for his intense battle scenes and designs for traditional Japanese tattoos (horimono).
Condition & Value
The print shows signs of age including vertical fold lines where the panels were joined, minor edge fraying, and some fading of the organic pigments. The reverse side shows paper backing strips used to join the panels, which is common for preserved multi-panel prints.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.