Japanese Woodblock Print Oban by Utagawa Yoshitaki

This Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print is by Utagawa Yoshitaki (Ichiyōsai Yoshitaki, 1841–1899), an Osaka-based artist particularly known for his actor prints and dramatic narrative scenes.

The composition is packed with movement, depicting an intense battle between armoured warriors within a temple or palatial complex. Figures tumble and clash across the foreground while fighting continues within the building beyond, creating the sense of frantic energy characteristic of Japanese warrior prints (musha-e) of the Edo and early Meiji periods.

Presented in a simple black frame with a wide white mount, this colourful 19th-century print makes a striking decorative piece while retaining the distinctive graphic quality of traditional Japanese ukiyo-e.

• Origin: Japan
• Date: 19th century
• Materials: Woodblock print on paper, glazed and framed
• Features: Warrior battle scene; signed Utagawa Yoshitaki / Ichiyōsai Yoshitaki
• Condition: Antique condition with age-related wear and fading
• Dimensions: W35 × D2 × H46 cm
• Weight: 1.3 kg