Print by Utagawa Kunisada I (1786-1864) depicting Sagami Gorō, one of the heroes of the famous Suikoden.
Kunisada I depicts the warrior in a spectacular kabuki pose, arms raised in dramatic mie, in the midst of a night scene enlivened by powerful waves and lighted boats in the distance.
The figure wears a kimono richly decorated with calligraphic and geometric motifs, typical of legendary warriors. The intense facial expression, vivid colors and energetic composition bear witness to Kunisada's powerful style in his musha-e series.
An expressive, theatrical print, emblematic of the heroic imagination of the Edo period.
The text introduces the hero in a few lines:
"Sagami Gorō, son of Morihira, general of the Heike clan, was once in conflict with his older brother, the judge Kurō Yoshitsune, which caused him to fall from grace.
Wandering from province to province, he was once attacked by brigands at sea and nearly lost his life, but was saved by Zenpei."
Original oban tate-e print, 1828.
Signed.
Very good condition. (stain and yellowing, laminated).
Size: 34.2 x 23.6 cm
(n.b. A copy is kept at the Institute of Art, Chicago).
