The Battle of Yashima, from The Tale of the Heike (Heike monogatari) 17th century

The Battle of Yashima, from The Tale of the Heike, a painted screen, was created by the Tosa School, a lineage of Japanese artists known for their revival of traditional Yamato-e style painting. This piece depicts a pivotal clash from the Genpei War (1180-1185), a conflict which defined Japan's transition from aristocratic to military rule. The Tale of the Heike, a sweeping epic, romanticizes the bravery and tragedy of the samurai clans. Notice how the artist balances panoramic scope with meticulous detail. The Tosa School were known for their focus on Japanese subject matter and techniques rooted in classical painting traditions, establishing a distinct identity during a time of cultural transformation and upheaval. This scene captures the emotional intensity of battle, rendered with a blend of stylized figures and dynamic composition. In its depiction of heroic warriors amidst chaos, this screen immortalizes a defining moment in Japanese history, reflecting themes of honor, sacrifice, and the impermanence of glory.