Artist: Utagawa Yoshitora [歌川 芳虎] (Japanese, active c. 1850–1880)
Signed: Ichimōsai Yoshitora ga (一猛斎 芳虎 画) [left sheet]
Publisher: Ebisuya Shōshichi [恵比寿屋 庄七] (Japanese, active mid-19th century)
Censor seals: Watanabe Shōemon and Mera Taichirō
Date: Ansei 1, 5th month (1853)
Media: Woodblock print (nishiki-e); ink and color on paper, horizontal ōban triptych; three sheets joined, 38 x 77.5 cm (15 x 32 in)
Title: Faithful Samurai in Full Strength (義士勢揃之図, Gishi seizoroi no zu)

This dynamic triptych presents a full group portrait of the forty-seven rōnin—the loyal retainers of Asano Naganori—shown standing in formation, dressed in matching haori coats with the iconic black-and-white triangular “mountain pattern” (yama-mon). This pattern had become a visual code for these historical avengers in ukiyo-e, referencing both their Kabuki portrayals and their association with Edo firefighters, who had permission to gather in public.

Each samurai is armed and prepared for action, many carrying swords, spears, bows, or battering tools such as giant wooden hammers (ōtsuchi) used for breaching gates. Although the background is minimal, a pale blue bokashi gradient suggests atmosphere, and the lack of architecture allows for an uninterrupted focus on the assembled figures. The composition gives the impression that the group is preparing to set out for their infamous mission: the raid on Kira Yoshinaka’s mansion.

In line with censorship practices of the time, the print uses modified names for the historical figures—a common strategy to reference the Akō incident while avoiding direct political commentary. Each figure bears a vertical cartouche with a pseudonym, though the true historical identity can be determined from accompanying documentation.

This is not a narrative scene but rather a commemorative tableau, idealizing the rōnin as a disciplined, unified force. It reflects the enduring cultural importance of the Akō vendetta and the popularity of Chūshingura-themed art in the late Edo period.

Identified Warriors in the Triptych (From Right to Left, Top to Bottom):