Samurai Warriors in a Naval Battle

This Edo period (1603–1867) painting depicts samurai warriors on boats, likely from the Genpei War (1180–1185). Executed in the Ukiyo-e style, it highlights outlined forms and the ’floating world.’ The samurai, in armor with swords and bows, convey the intensity of naval combat, a common theme in samurai art. The detailed depiction of their attire and weaponry provides insight into samurai culture, possibly as part of a byobu (folding screen), a popular format.