Tomimori Sukeemon Masakata, a woodblock print by Kuniyoshi c.1847, 14 x 10in (35.5 x 25.5cm).
A series of woodblock prints by the Japanese artist Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) portrays the 47 ronin, a group of ferociously loyal samurai who famously avenged their master’s death.
The historical event, known as the Ako incident, took place in the early years of the 18th century but quickly became the stuff of legend. The story goes that Asano Naganori, lord of Ako, was requested to help carry out certain duties at the shogun’s court. Kira, a court official, was assigned to instruct Asano in court etiquette, but treated him with such open contempt that the country lord drew his sword in anger and attacked.