Utagawa Kuniyoshi, "Inu (Dog): Hata Rokurozaemon"

From Kuniyoshi's series, "Heroes Representing the Twelve Animals of the Zodiac," we see the warrior Hata Rokurozaemon representing the Dog zodiac. Hata was a retainer of the 14th century Nitta clan lord, Yoshisada during the Nanbuko-cho period. Here Hata is shown with his faithful companion in full military gear observing troops move in the distance. 

Series: Heroes Representing the Twelve Animals of the Zodiac
Date: ca. 1842
Size: Chutanzaku (approx. 5" x 14")
Publisher: Minatoya Kohei
Condition: Light trimming, center crease, otherwise excellent color and condition 

Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) is one of Japan's greatest masters of ukiyo-e printmaking from the Edo period. Many of Kuniyoshi's works are regarded today as archetypes of woodblock prints produced during the Edo period and highly prized by collectors.