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. 

Onio and Dosaburo, Retainers of the Soga Brothers - Handsome scene of Onio and Dosaburo, two of the Soga Brothers' retainers, pausing during their travels as they spy smoke coming from two fires in the distance. They grimace angrily, the fellow at right grabbing his sword as if ready to leap into action. The samurai wear matching blue kimono trimmed with white checks tucked into brown patterned pants, and each has a woven hat and a straw raincoat. They seem to be walking the rocky bottom of a valley, with a narrow stream flowing down a hill in the distance. Great expressive figures in an interesting setting.

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.