Handsome and Brave Heroes of the Suikoden - In 1866, Yoshitoshi began work on a fantastic 50 print series called the "Handsome and Brave Heroes of the Suikoden" (Biyu Suikoden). Instead of depicting the traditional characters from the novel "Suikoden," Yoshitoshi chose to use his own set of heroes from Japanese history and legend for this series. He also incorporated spirits and monsters, resulting in a very unusual and creative twist on the classic Suikoden theme. These bold and lively images feature beautifully colored and detailed figures in striking poses, many with supernatural or magical creatures. Some feature deluxe embellishments such as embossing or burnishing. These early chuban designs by Yoshitoshi are a great choice for a collector interested in this legendary tale. 

Hodemi no Mikoto Riding a Sea Bream, 1867 - Terrific image of Hodemi no Mikoto, also known as Hoori, riding through the waves of an enormous sea bream. He looks back over his shoulder with an angry frown as he lifts his fishing pole above his head, the line still caught in the fish's mouth as white foam splashes up all around them. According to legend, Hoori forced his older brother to lend him a fishing hook, which he then lost, leading to an argument between them. Hoori went to the bottom of the sea in search of the hook, where he met Princess Toyotama-hime (or Otohime), the daughter of the dragon king. Her father helped find the hook, and Hoori married the princess, living in the dragon palace beneath the sea with his wife. A wonderful, lively design with a wonderful composition.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 9 1/4" x 6 5/8"

Condition - This print with good color and excellent detail as shown. A couple light diagonal folds near bottom. A few holes and thinning spots, repaired. Slight soiling, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.