10 Utagawa Kuniyoshi 1798 – 1861 Otsuma's Lover Hachirobei

Japan, 1843–1847 (Edo period, Tenpō 14–Kōka 4),
from the series Mirror of Virtuous Women (Teijo misao kagami)

This dramatic and compositionally innovative sheet was designed by the master Utagawa Kuniyoshi. The scene originates from the series "Mirror of Virtuous Women" (Teijo misao kagami) and depicts a man named Hachirobei, the lover of Otsuma. Kuniyoshi brilliantly showcases his talent for building theatrical tension and his highly original use of space. The protagonist, dressed in a blue-striped kimono with a cloth tied over his head, stands in a tense defensive posture as he partially draws his sword. What truly elevates this print to a visual masterpiece is the background: behind the translucent paper sliding doors (shōji), the stark black silhouettes of three figures (two men and a woman) are cast in shadow, lending a mysterious and menacing atmosphere to the entire scene. The print bears the signature Ichiyūsai Kuniyoshi ga, the round censor's seal Watari, and features no blockcutter's mark. An impression of this striking design is held in the prestigious collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.