Takakura moon

In another print that features the conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans, Yoshitoshi describes a scene that contributed to the start of the Genpei War (1180-1185). The Genpei war was fought over control of the imperial court, and resulted in the final defeat of the Taira at the battle of Dannoura (see print #12 above). In this print, the Minamoto Prince Mochihito (son of Emperor Go-Shirakawa) eludes capture by the Taira, covered and dressed as a woman. The prince's retainer, Haseba Nobutsura watches the departure. Prince Mochihito successfully escapes, but is later captured and slain. Haseba Nobutsura fights bravely after Mochihito's escape and is later exiled. When the Minomoto finally defeat the Taira, Nobutsura is recalled and generously rewarded (as the lord of a province).