Usagi Yojimbo #45

Usagi Yojimbo issue #45 was published in 1992 during the series' tenure at Mirage Studios. The issue continues the epic 'Circles' storyline, a complex narrative arc that remains a defining work for creator Stan Sakai. Set in a version of Edo-period Japan populated by anthropomorphic animals, the series serves as a heartfelt homage to Japanese samurai cinema, particularly the works of Akira Kurosawa and the Lone Wolf and Cub manga series.

Stan Sakai both wrote and illustrated this issue, maintaining the clean, brush-heavy aesthetic that has become his signature style. The series has long been praised by critics and peers for its meticulous historical research and fluid action sequences. By the time this issue was released, Sakai had firmly established the title as a critically respected staple of the independent comic scene, moving away from the more commercial superhero tropes prevalent in the industry at the time.