Good condition overall with vivid colors and sharp linework. There are some creases and age-related dark spots present, but the image remains bold, dramatic, and visually striking. Presented in a new A3 frame for preservation and display.
This late Edo-period ukiyo-e woodblock print by Utagawa Kuniyoshi was produced circa 1827–1830 during the Bunsei era as part of the celebrated series One Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Water Margin (Tsuzoku Suikoden Gōketsu Hyakuhachinin no Hitori).
Published by Kagaya Kichiemon, the series became one of Kuniyoshi's most influential achievements and helped establish his reputation as the foremost designer of warrior prints in 19th-century Japan. Inspired by the Chinese classic Water Margin (Suikoden), the series depicts legendary outlaw heroes renowned for their courage, loyalty, and martial skill.
Kuniyoshi's dynamic compositions, powerful figures, and imaginative costume designs captivated Edo audiences and had a lasting influence on Japanese visual culture. The dramatic poses and richly detailed imagery found in the series would later inspire generations of artists, tattoo designers, and collectors.
Printed in the large vertical ōban format, this work exemplifies the bold storytelling and technical excellence that made the Suikoden series one of the defining masterpieces of Edo-period ukiyo-e.
A highly collectible example of Kuniyoshi's warrior imagery, suitable for collectors of samurai art, ukiyo-e, and Japanese historical prints.
