Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This dramatic Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print diptych depicts the legendary Oguri brothers battling a giant serpent in a moonlit forest. Signed by the master artist Utagawa Sadahide, it showcases the dynamic action, rich narrative, and theatrical intensity characteristic of the late Edo period's warrior print (musha-e) genre.
Story
In the 1840s, Japanese audiences craved thrilling tales of samurai heroism. This print captures the Oguri brothers confronting a monstrous serpent under a full moon, a classic tale of courage and filial duty.
Maker / Origin
Utagawa Sadahide was a prominent student of the legendary Utagawa Kunisada. He became famous for his highly detailed warrior prints, dramatic battle scenes, and later, his fascinating 'Yokohama-e' prints documenting the arrival of Westerners in Japan.
Condition & Value
The print shows some light toning, minor creasing, and wear consistent with age along the margins where the two sheets meet. The colors remain relatively strong and vibrant. Excellent preservation of the original margins would place this toward the higher end of the value range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.