Hiroshige's Illustrations from the Soga Monogatari Zue (The Revenge of the Soga Brothers) - Wonderful image from an unusual historic series by Hiroshige illustrating the famous tale of the Soga Brothers. Based on a true story, the father was murdered in 1175 when the brothers were aged three and five. In 1193, they finally avenged his death, killing his assassin during a hunting party at the foot of Mt. Fuji during a pouring rainstorm. This legendary story of honor and heroism was a favorite during the Edo era, and a subject for countless artists and playwrights.

Known primarily for his landscapes, these prints represent a departure from Hiroshige's traditional subject matter. These terrific designs combine lively figures with handsome settings, including interiors and landscapes. Beautifully detailed with rich color and soft shading, images from this series are increasingly difficult to come by and highly collectible. A great choice for a Hiroshige enthusiast or a collector interested in classic Japanese tales. 

Asahina Saburo Saves the Soga Brothers - Handsome scene from the life of the Soga Brothers showing a struggle taking place outside an encampment. A young samurai tosses his right hand in the air, having just sent an opponent tumbling to the ground before him, still gripping a wooden pole. The warrior wears a plum colored kamishimo over a striped kimono and a black court cap. He frowns as he grips the scabbard of another man in his left hand. The fellow at right lifts one leg as he tries to draw his blade, grimacing angrily. A pine tree rises in front of a wooden fence behind them, with a striped tent wall at right and pole arms resting against it. At left, a pair of travelers wanders along the road towards a rooftop in the distance. A lively design with fresh color and expressive figures, and fine shading in the sky and cloud border.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 9" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight thinning at left edge, a few holes, repaired. Slight creasing with slight thinning along creases, slight rubbing near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.