The Legend of the Eight Dogs of Satomi (Satomi Hakkenden), author unknown, 1895.

A Japanese woodblock print inspired by the classic epic *Satomi Hakkenden* (The Legend of the Eight Dogs of the Satomi Clan)—one of the most important works of popular literature from the Edo period, often adapted for kabuki theater and ukiyo-e art.
The composition depicts a dramatic scene: Michisetsu raises the Murasamemaru sword on Mount Maruzuka, while his younger sister Hamaji clings to him in a gesture of desperation. The characters’ dynamic poses, contrasting colors, and richly decorated costumes point to a connection with theatrical and acting iconography.
The woodblock print’s style—expressive lines, decorative elements, and theatrical pathos—echoes the work of the Utagawa school. The work is sometimes attributed to Kunisada’s circle, though this has not been definitively confirmed.

Date: 1895
Artist: unknown
Dimensions: approx. 36 × 25 cm