Portrait of Man with Pipe is a superb color woodblock print on paper, from the Japanese print-series “Taiheiki eiyu den”, 'Tale of Grand Pacification', designed by Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1897-1861) ad printed in the late 19th Century. In this book concerning the biographies of the heroes of the war in Taiheiki during the XVI century, each print is accompanied by a translation of the extensive texts incorporated into the composition and historical and cultural commentaries. This plate represents the portrait of a hero, of a man who, unarmed, had won his fight against a huge boar. and now is enjoys his pipette. The signature of “Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga”, the original name of the artist and Kiri stamp is reported in Japanese ideograms on the higher right margin. Mera un Murata (1847-50). In excellent condition, with vivid colours, this original Japanese print by one of the most famous ukiyo-e master, could embellish your house with an Oriental touch! Provenance: German private collection, assembled between the 1950s and 2000s Utagawa Kuniyoshi (Japanese: 歌川 國芳 [ɯtaɡaɰa kɯɲijoɕi1798 -1861 One of the last great masters of the Japanese ukiyo-e style of woodblock prints and painting, member of the Utagawa school, Utagawa Kuniyoshi was remembered still today for the representations of landscapes, beautiful women, Kabuki actors, cats, and mythical animals. He is best-known for depictions of the battles of legendary samurai heroes.