At the heart of Japanese culture is the Samurai code of Bushido. Its tenets are rigorous and exacting: the warrior is courageous, loyal, honorable, self-controlled and courteous unto death. Nowhere is this concept better expressed than in the classic Legend of the 47 Ronin.

This tale of 18th century Japan tells of 47 Samurai who avenge the treachery of Lord Kira that forced ritual suicide, seppubu, on their noble Lord Asano, brought disgrace to the Asano clan and left the Samurai without a master. Their dedication to Bushido, that ended with their honorable death by Seppuku, made national heroes of these brave men.

In the three centuries since these dramatic events took place, the 47 Ronin have been celebrated in drama, theatre, songs and stories. These are now the subject of a spectacular suite of images by modern Japanese master Hisashi Otsuka. In this piece the pure essence of the Spirit of Bushido is captured for all time.