A Japanese Dealer’s Personal Collection - This print and the others posted with our “Japanese dealer” subtitle are from the personal collection of a leading Japanese dealer. We were fortunate to be able to select a small number of fine pieces from the collection of this prominent Japanese print dealer. The prints in this offering are particularly good, rare and desirable designs that this dealer had set aside for his personal collection. We chose prints that we knew would appeal to Fuji Arts clients. Take some time to explore this fine, small group. These designs are rarely offered!

Comments - Terrific scene from the legendary tale of the Demon of Oeyama, the horrible Shuten-doji, who kidnapped young beauties and held them hostage in his lair on Mt. Oe near Kyoto. The great warrior Minamoto no Yorimitsu (Raiko) and his men traveled to the demon's hideout in order to kill him. After lulling him into a drunken stupor, Raiko cut off the monster's head with his sword. Here, the drowsing giant leans against a rocky outcropping, plucking at the arm of one of Raiko's retainers who grips his sword overhead. While the monster is distracted, Raiko aims a blow at his head at upper right, the warrior dressed in a fine suit of armor and a horned helmet. Interestingly, one side of Shuten-doji's face seems human, while the other is dark red and craggy, with a fang protruding from his mouth and an animal-like ear poking up from his shaggy hair. An incredible, dramatic composition, and a fantastic illustration from this famous story.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 28 7/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, not attached at the seams. Slight paper remnants on reverse from previous backing. A few small wormholes, repaired, blends well. Creasing, slight soiling, slight rubbing near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.