Handsome and Brave Heroes of the Suikoden – In 1866, Yoshitoshi began work on a fantastic 50 print series called the “Handsome and Brave Heroes of the Suikoden” (Biyu Suikoden). Instead of depicting the traditional characters from the novel “Suikoden,” Yoshitoshi chose to use his own set of heroes from Japanese history and legend for this series. He also incorporated spirits and monsters, resulting in a very unusual and creative twist on the classic Suikoden theme. These bold and lively images feature beautifully colored and detailed figures in striking poses, many with supernatural or magical creatures. Some feature deluxe embellishments such as embossing or burnishing. These early chuban designs by Yoshitoshi are a great choice for a collector interested in this legendary tale.

Akamatsu Jutamaru Takanori and the Ghost of Yaehatahime – Terrific portrait of the noted archer Akamatsu Jutamaru Takanori encountering the ghost of his murdered sister, Yaehatahime, while he is visiting Prince Murota. Sitting atop a guard sprawling on the ground, the young warrior listens with an unhappy frown as the spirit relates how she and their father were murdered by the prince. He scowls as he looks over his shoulder, gripping his bow with one hand. The beauty appears behind him, her long hair flowing over her shoulders, hands folded before her. A great supernatural subject, beautifully detailed with a burnished geometric pattern in Takanori’s black kimono.

Artist – Yoshitoshi (1839 – 1892)