The Capture of Kamakura, 1333 (litho)

The Capture of Kamakura, 1333. As Nitta Yoshisada advanced to the attack of Kamakura he found it strongly fortified both inland and on the seashore. The latter gave advantage to an assault, but ships lay off the shore ready to make a flank attack. So, being without hope of victory, he prayed to the Sea God for help, and cast his sword to the waters as a votive offering. The next day, as if by miracle, the ships were carried by the tide out to sea. Yoshisada and his army then advanced to the attack, and after carrying the defences by storm, they burnt the city, which had been the glory of Yoritomo. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson, c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.