Hiroshige: Onio and Dozaburo, two Vassals of the Soga Brothers 鬼王・道三郎 (Sold)

Artist: Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858)
Title: Onio and Dozaburo, two Vassals of the Soga Brothers 鬼王・道三郎
Series: The Story of the Revenge of the Soga Brothers (Soga Monogatari)
Date: ca. 1845

Hiroshige designed only a few warrior series, but this one of the famous Revenge of the Soga brothers story displays his artistic range, using muscles he rarely gets to flex. Here we see Onio and Dozaburo taking leave of their master. They are dressed for travel, and they look with concern at fires rising in the distance behind them. The older man at left, who carries a box prominently hung around his neck, seems to be restraining his younger companion from going back towards what must be a scene of violence. This tale of revenge by two young men for the murder of their father is a perennial favorite, and kabuki plays based on the story are still performed today. This is from chapter 23 in the story.

Condition: Very good impression; excellent color and condition.
Dimensions: ôban (37 x 25 cm)
Publisher: Ibasen
Literature: See Art Institute of Chicago, Honolulu, National Diet Library
Signature: Hiroshige ga

SKU: HIR541