Act IV. Lady Enya beside cherry blossoms

Artist: Hiroshige, Utagawa (1797-1858)

Title: Act IV. Lady Enya beside cherry blossoms, trying to distract herself from the pending suicide of Lord Enya

Series: The Loyal League of the 47 Ronin

Japanese Series: Chushingura (16 prints)

Publisher: Senichi

Date: Edo Period

Oboshi, Lord Enya’s faithful retainer, remains by Lord Enya’s side as he prepares to commit seppuku (ritual suicide). His protector, Kampei, runs away when he realises that his lack of attention to his master had contributed to his attack on Moronao. Lady Enya is depicted surrounded by cherry blossoms, a symbolic reminder of the fleeting life of a true Samurai warrior.