Kamakura Dispatches: Asahina, Tomotoki, and Their Woman, 1843 - 1846

by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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Kamakura Dispatches: Asahina, Tomotoki, and Their Woman, 1843 - 1846 by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Original Hiroshige (1797 - 1858) Japanese Woodblock Print
Kamakura Dispatches: Asahina, Tomotoki, and Their Woman, 1843 - 1846

Comments - Intriguing scene from the tale of Lady Matsushima, a young beauty who served in the emperor's court. One night the villain Tomotoki tried to force his attentions upon her, but she was rescued by the chivalrous Asahina, who intervened. Here, the beauty stands at left, looking down with a frightened expression as she tries to pull her kimono free from Tomotoki, who is kneeling on it. Asahina appears at right, scowling angrily at his fellow samurai's behavior, shielding a lantern under his arm. According to legend, the emperor rewarded Asahina by giving him Lady Matsushima in marriage, but the emperor's mother opposed the union. She wanted the beauty to marry her nephew, the evil Tomotoki. In the end, Matsushima decides to commit suicide, as she cannot refuse the Imperial mother, and is secretly in love with Asahina. A great design with expressive figures and a beautiful verandah setting overlooking a garden pond at night, with pink and white cherry blossoms framing the deep blue evening sky. A crisp, clean impression with beautiful fresh color.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 29 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Vertical fold near left edge of left panel, now flattened. A few small holes, repaired. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.

Kamakura Dispatches: Asahina, Tomotoki, and Their Woman, 1843 - 1846 by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)
Kamakura Dispatches: Asahina, Tomotoki, and Their Woman, 1843 - 1846 by Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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