Japanese 6-panel Screen - Genpei War 18th Century

The theme of this very rare screen traces the story of the great battle of Yashima, in the 12th century, between the Taira and Minamoto clans. It owes its name to the contraction of Minamoto Gen (Chinese reading) and the Taira Hei clan, hence the name Heike. Also called Heike Monogotari. This is a naval battle, the Battle of Yashima (ichi no tani) in 1184, where the Taira clan retreated to an island off Shikoku in the inland sea. The Minamoto were victorious but much of the Taira fleet managed to escape and were defeated again a month later. Very interesting screen of great finesse in the description of the characters, troop movements and perfectly restores this warlike atmosphere. We distinguish, in the heart of the battle, 5th panel starting from the right, Minamoto Yoshitsune (1159-1189) on his famous black horse Tayuguro. Edo period: early 18th century.