A Fight at the Yalu River

Artist Getsuzo (Japanese, active 1904–1905)

DateMay 5, 1904

Mediumwoodblock print (nishiki-e); ink and color on paper

DimensionsOban Triptych: 25.4 × 113 cm (10 × 44 1/2 in.)

ClassificationsPrints

Credit LineHarriet B. Bancroft Fund

Terms

Object number1999.39

DescriptionThe descriptive text states: "Navy scout sub-lieutenant Yamaguchi Kiichi with his five subordinates reached the Yalu River, where they encountered seven Russian soldiers coming towards them across the river. Shooting started, and soon several scores of enemy troops on a huge fishing boat joined the battle. With the assistance of cavalry scouts, Yamaguchi and his men drove the enemy away to the other side of the river." A comparison of Getsuzo's print with Gekko's Picture of Captain Osawa and Others (no. 8) makes clear the later artist's primary interest in the elucidation of the text over atmospheric effects or landscape. Every detail of facial expression and costume is carefully delineated as the determined men force the enemy's retreat. To Getsuzo the landscape is ony the setting for his narrative.
ProvenanceIsrael Goldman, London

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