Shozan Sakuma (Sakuma Shozan, January 19, 1811 (December 22, 1810 in the lunar calendar) - August 12, 1864 (July 11, 1864 in the lunar calendar)) was a thinker and military scholar at the end of the Edo period, and is also known as an educator who incorporated Western studies. His real name was Shuichi Sakuma, but he is widely known by the pen name "Shozan." History and Life Birth and Family Born in Matsushiro Domain, Nagano Prefecture (present-day Matsushiro, Nagano City). His father was a feudal retainer, and the Sakuma family was a distinguished family within the domain. Scholarship and Thought After studying mainly Chinese studies, he studied Neo-Confucianism and Wang Yangming's philosophy. Furthermore, he became interested in Western science and technology and military science, and advocated "Eastern ethics, Western arts." Education and Influence He was involved in the education of feudal retainers in the Matsushiro Domain, and his disciples included many patriots at the end of the Edo period, such as Shoin Yoshida and Ryoma Sakamoto. He especially emphasized practical learning based on knowledge of Western studies. Introduction of the West He conducted research on the manufacture of Western cannons and telegraphs, and promoted innovative initiatives in Japan at the time. As an advocate of opening the country, he argued the risks of continuing to maintain national isolation. Later Years and Death He was assassinated in Kyoto during the turmoil at the end of the Edo period. He was 54 years old. Main Achievements and Thought "Eastern ethics, Western arts" The idea of incorporating Western science and technology into Japan while preserving the spiritual traditions of the East. Dissemination of Western studies Contributed to the modernization of Japan, such as the manufacture of telegraphs and guns, and basic research on naval military science. Frame dimensions ★ Approximately 183 x 36 cm Artwork dimensions ★ Approximately 169 x 28 cm ・Glass plate is included. ・The frame has an opening. Overall, there is damage and a sense of aging. ・Please note that there may be slight differences in color between the images posted and the actual product. ・Please take a good look at the images and understand that this is a used item before purchasing. ・If you purchase a painting, etc., and hang it on the wall, please check the strength of the string and金具 (metal fittings) before hanging it. Also, it is recommended to check regularly to see if the strength has decreased. ※Regarding works with the name of a specific artist in the product title of art objects. [Genuine] A work that can be guaranteed to be genuine. If it is judged to be a forgery by a public appraisal institution within 90 days from the date of purchase, the work will be returned and the purchase price will be refunded. The buyer is responsible for the appraisal fees and other expenses. [Copy] All works that are suspected of not being genuine are labeled as copies. Please confirm the above before purchasing.