Kasunoki
Masahige was a 14th century samurai who fought for Emperor Go-Daigo in his attempt
to wrest rulership of Japan away from the Kamakura shogunate. In Japan he is upheld
as an exemplar of the samurai code and deep loyalty to the emperor, if necessary
unto death. According to legend, Masahige's last words were Shichisei Hokoku!
("Would that I had seven lives to give for my country!")
This
meticulously sculpted bronze okimono is a classic depiction of this noble samurai.
Sitting atop a magnificent muscled steed reared up in motion. Masahige is suited
in period Japanese armor. Made of bamboo, cloth and metal, Japanese traditional
armor was exceptionally flexible in its intricate artistry a detail finely exemplified
here. With his sword drawn ready for battle, Mahahige’s countenance exemplifies
a noble calm and a potent present masculinity. His armor (kabuto) headdress is
resplendent. Not uncommon in the design of traditional kabuto this headdress communicates
a larger than life quality bestowing the fierce warrior who wears it with a mythical
greatness. This bronze okimono is in excellent condition.
