Kishi Hirokichi, *The Great Battle Between the Japanese and Russian Fleets: A Depiction of Our Forces’ Great Victory*, Japan, February 12, 1904. Nichiro kantai daigekisen wagagun daishōri no zu — “The Great Victory of Our Forces in the Fierce Battle Betwe

Color lithograph. The print was published just three days after the event depicted. It belongs to the sensō-e genre—popular Japanese depictions of war that combine the functions of illustrated news, patriotic propaganda, and historical mementos.
The publication date in the margin reads:
明治三十七年二月十二日 – February 12, Meiji 37, i.e., February 12, 1904.
Artist, Printer, and Publisher: Kishi Hirokichi
Seller: Nakajima Shōtarō
Dimensions: 62.5 x 42.5 cm.
The composition depicts a clash between modern steamships on a stormy sea. The silhouettes of the vessels are partially obscured by billowing smoke, flashes of gunfire, and trails of projectiles. The dark, blue-gray color scheme is enlivened by the red of the Japanese flags. The dynamic composition, the violently crashing waves, and the strong light contrasts give the depiction the feel of a live report from the battlefield.
The text above the composition describes the Japanese fleet’s attack on Port Arthur on February 9, 1904. It mentions the ships passing in front of the Russian positions, the batteries on Golden Hill, and the start of the general bombardment. The mention of several Russian ships being sunk is a propaganda element—the daytime engagement off Port Arthur ended in a stalemate, though both sides sustained damage.