Utagawa Kuniyoshi, "Kiura Okaemon Sadayuki," 47 Ronin

Kokusempu Riki (Li Kui), drunk and furious, attacks Hakuryojin Temple after being expelled from there. Two axes are shown in the image.

Series: 108 Heroes of the Popular Suikoden (Water Margin)
Date 1827-1830
Size: Oban (approx. 10" x 14")
Publisher: Kagaya Kichiemon
Condition: Excellent condition and color, light trimming on left
Frame Shown: 16" x 24", Classic Wood, Ebony

Utagawa Kuniyoshi's (1798-1861) woodblock print series, “108 Heroes of the Popular Suikoden," is one the artist's most famous and striking series of works. Many prints from this series have become exceptionally rare. Based on one of China's greatest classical novels written in the 14th century, the story centers on a group of 108 outlaws gathered within Liangshan Marsh whose heroic tales of bravery and service made them historical folk heroes in both China and Japan.