Mirror of Famous Generals of Japan - Yoshitoshi designed this fantastic series of fifty-one prints of military heroes from 1876 to 1882. These dramatic images of famous warriors created a sensation with the Japanese public. Full of violence and intense emotions, Yoshitoshi's bold and innovative compositions tackled a historic subject using a modern style. His realism and drafting skill captured the important legacy of these national heroes at a time when Japan was struggling with the aftermath of the Satsuma Rebellion. Classic Yoshitoshi images, these dynamic prints are a great choice for collectors.

Susanoo no Mikoto and Inadahime Awaiting the Eight-headed Serpent, 1880 - Interesting scene of Susanoo no Mikoto, the Shinto God of Wind and Sea, waiting for the arrival of an eight-headed serpent. After being banished from heaven because of his misbehavior, Susanoo no Mikoto was forced to remain on earth and perform good deeds. He met an elderly couple crying over the fate of their eighth daughter, the lovely Inadahime. Each year for the last seven years, an eight-headed serpent had visited them, taking one of their daughters, and now they feared the monster would come for their only remaining child. Susannoo agreed to slay the beast if they would allow him to marry Inadahime. Here, he leans over the edge of a rocky cliff as winds whip his robes around him, gesturing at the turbulent sea below as the young beauty crouches at upper right. After putting out eight barrels of sake, Susanoo waited until the beast was drunk, then killed it. Wonderfully detailed with energetic line work. A fascinating story and a great choice for a collector interested in Japanese folklore.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 13 5/8" x 8 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Small loss and tear at edge, small thinning spot, repaired. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details.