The Book of the Eight Dog Heroes - This great half-length portrait series by Kunisada II presents characters from the kabuki play based on the epic novel "Satomi and the Eight Dog Heroes" (Nanso Satomi Hakkenden). The Eight Dog Heroes were the mystical offspring of Fusehime, the daughter of Lord Anzai of the Satomi Clan, and a dog. Raised by different families, the brothers did not meet until they were adults, when their many adventures brought them into contact with one another. Each has a surname that begins with "Inu," the Japanese word for dog. These bold images feature large expressive figures set against a night sky or landscape background. Beautifully detailed with fine line work in the hair and bokashi shading in the background, some prints include deluxe treatments such as burnishing or embossing. These handsome designs are a great choice for a collector interested in the samurai tradition, and are rarely seen on the market.

Bando Mitsugoro III as Kanamari Hachiro - Great image of Bando Mitsugoro III as Kanamari Hachiro in a play based on the "Eight Dog Heroes," a novel which recounts the adventures of eight samurai brothers. He stares over his shoulder with an anguished expression, one hand thrust out at his side. His long hair is pulled back into a low ponytail, his head wrapped in a white cloth. A straw raincoat hangs around his neck over a patchwork kimono and blue arm protectors. Beautiful detail in the hair and the expressive face. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has this image in its collection. A poignant portrait from this rarely seen series.

Artist - Kunisada II (1823 - 1880)

Image Size - 9 7/8" x 14"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Some rubbing and soiling at edges. A few small holes. Some minor paper remnants on reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.