ANONYMOUSEDO PERIOD, 18TH–19TH CENTURY THE BATTLE OF ICHINOTANI |

a pair of six-fold screens: ink, colour and gofun on paper

Private American Collection.

- Overall these screens are in fine condition. - The coloured pigments vibrant. - As can be seen in the illustration, both screens have slight watermarks to the upper and lower part of the panels.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The battle of Ichinotani took place in 1185, at the end of the gruelling five-year war between the Taira (also known as Heike) and the Minamoto (or Genji). The Minamoto emerged victorious and their leader, Yoritomo, became the first shogun of a new military government. The battle was immortalised in the 13^th-century historical novel, Tale of the Heike. The tale held special relevance in the 17^th century when the concept of bushido, the way of the samurai, developed. Men recalled with romantic nostalgia the glory of past fighting days and self-consciously articulated an ideal code of conduct.