Artwork

The Military Tales of Han and Chu: Fan Kuai of the Han

The Military Tales of Han and Chu: Fan Kuai of the Han, by Utagawa Kunisada, 1824
The Military Tales of Han and Chu: Fan Kuai of the Han, by Utagawa Kunisada, 1824

The Military Tales of Han and Chu: Fan Kuai of the Han is a print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Kunisada. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Military Tales of Han and Chu: Fan Kuai of the Han is a print by Utagawa Kunisada, created around 1824.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a fierce warrior, Fan Kuai, with wild hair and a scowling face, holding a long spear and prepared for battle, set against a backdrop of swirling clouds and bold patterns.

Technique & Style

The work features bright colors, including red, blue, and gold, and a decorative style characteristic of Japanese prints from the period, with the warrior's angry expression contrasting against the busy background.

History & Provenance

The print is held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.