The Loyal Heroes of the Hakkenden - Terrific kabuki portrait of one of the Eight Dog Warriors from the famous story "The Biography of Nanso Satomi and the Eight Dog Warriors" (Nanso Satomi Hakkenden). These great samurai were the mystical offspring of Fusehime, the daughter of Lord Anzai of the Satomi Clan, and a dog, hence the small dogs in the corner of the title cartouche. Featuring dramatic compositions and expressive figures, these bold designs are a great choice for a collector interested in the samurai tradition. A rarely seen Kuniyoshi series.

Nakamura Fukusuke as Inukai Kenpachi - Terrific image of Nakamura Fukusuke as Inukai Kenpachi, the Eight Dog Warrior best known for his famous fight atop the tiled roof of the Horyukaku, a tower of Koga Castle. He frowns angrily as he stares ahead, gripping a narrow rope with both hands. He wears a fantastic black kimono patterned with snarling dragons and swirling clouds over a suit of armor, a sash tied around his bushy hair. Two birds fly off overhead, startled by the commotion of the fight. Beautifully detailed with fine line work in the hair and delicate embossing in the dragons and birds' feathers.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x9 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few small holes, repaired, blends well. Slight soiling and creasing. Please see photos for details.