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. 

The Soga Brothers with Their Mother - Intriguing scene of the Soga Brothers returning as young men to meet with their mother at her home in the country. The elderly woman raises her fan above her head angrily, threatening the younger brother Goro with it. Goro bows respectfully, bent nearly double on the wooden porch, his sword lying beside him, as Juro tries to intervene, holding their mother back with his hand. A blossoming plum tree frames the scene in the foreground, and stepping stones lead through the garden in the distance, where plants climb up bamboo trellises. An interesting subject with expressive figures.

Artist - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few thinning spots and holes, repaired. Slight soiling and creasing, slight rubbing at lower left. Please see photos for details. and thinning at bottom edge, repaired. Slight soiling and creasing, slight rubbing near edge, a few faint stains. Please see photos for details.