288. Bronze figure of a samurai archer with a longbow. Yoshimitsu Hou (芳光炮) Japan. Meiji period 19th-20th century.

A spectacular bronze sculpture made using the casting technique, dates back to around 1880 and belongs to the master Yoshimitsu Hou (芳光炮). The composition depicts a kneeling samurai, preparing to release an arrow, at the moment of maximum tension of the drawn bow. The figure attracts attention with its expressiveness and meticulous detail. The samurai is dressed in traditional clothing of the era, including loose robes and hakama, decorated with mon (family crests) of the Minamoto and Seiwa Genji clans. On the sleeves you can see the mon of the Mori clan in the form of a crane (tsuru). Every detail of the sculpture, from the richly decorated robe to the finely polished elements of the armor, is executed with the highest degree of craftsmanship and covered with a thick layer of gilding. The sculpture probably depicts Minamoto no Tametomo (1139–1170), a legendary warrior of the Heian period, famous for his skill with archery. His eyes, inlaid with shakudo, convey willpower and determination, and the traditional hairstyle and ceremonial eboshi hat complete the image. On the back of the sculpture is a gilded plate engraved with the signature of the master Yoshimitsu Hou (芳光炮). The height of the figure is 17 cm. Japan, Meiji Period (1868–1912)