Hojo Tokimasa Celebrates Hakoomaru’s Coming of Age

by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Current Status

Hojo Tokimasa Celebrates Hakoomaru’s Coming of Age  by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Original Hiroshige (1797 - 1858) Japanese Woodblock Print
Hojo Tokimasa Celebrates Hakoomaru’s Coming of Age

Series; Soga Monogatari Zue (The Revenge of the Soga Brothers), circa 1845

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. 

Hojo Tokimasa Celebrates Hakoomaru’s Coming of Age - Attractive scene of the ceremony celebrating the coming of age of Hakoomaru (the childhood name of Soga Goro). The brothers kneel quietly, dressed in blue robes patterned with their trademark birds and butterflies. The nobleman Hojo Tokimasa regards them with an imperious expression as a servant carries in an offering tray stacked with graduated sake cups. A suit of armor rests on a lacquer tray in front of Hakoomaru, and a wooden armor chest can be seen on the platform at upper right. A nicely detailed image from this classic tale.

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 lower left edge, a few small holes and thinning spots, repaired. Slight soiling and creasing, slight rubbing near edge, faint stain near upper left. Please see photos for details.

Hojo Tokimasa Celebrates Hakoomaru’s Coming of Age  by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)
Hojo Tokimasa Celebrates Hakoomaru’s Coming of Age  by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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