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. 

Yawata Saburo and Omi Kotoda Shooting at Kawazu Saburo - Dramatic scene of Suketsune's retainers Yawata Saburo and Omi Kotoda shooting at Kawazu Saburo Sukeyasu, the father of the young Soga Brothers, as he travels through the Hakone Mountains. The men hide behind a cluster of trees, one carefully aiming his arrow at the sumo wrestler as he approaches on horseback as part of a procession winding through the valley below. His death will lead his young sons to seek revenge, creating the basis for the famous tale of the Soga Brothers. An intriguing image depicting this sad moment.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Losses at edges, a few wormholes, repaired. Soiling and rubbing. Please see photos for details.