Original woodblock print triptych - Washi paper - Garden - Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861) - 'Brotherhood Pledge in the Peach Garden' - From the series "A Popular Romance of the Three Kingdoms" - Japan - 1853 (Kaei 6), 3rd month

Original woodblock print triptych - Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861) - 'Tōen ni gi wo musubu zu' 桃園義結圖 (Brotherhood Pledge in the Peach Garden) - From the series "Sangokushi no uchi" 三国志之内 (A Popular Romance of the Three Kingdoms) - Japan - 1853 (Kaei 6) , 3rd month Artists: Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861) Title: 'Tōen ni gi wo musubu zu' 桃園義結圖 (Brotherhood Pledge in the Peach Garden) Series: "Sangokushi no uchi" 三国志之内 (A Popular Romance of the Three Kingdoms) Publisher: Tsutaya Kichizo Date: 1853 (Kaei 6) , 3rd month Condition report: Slightly yellowed, torn corners, light creases and pinholes. Size: (L) 37. 6 x 25. 6 (C) 37. 8 x 26. 1 (R) 37. 8 x 25. 5 cm This triptych illustrates the three leaders Kwanu, Gentoku, and Chohi meeting in a peach orchard to take an oath of brotherhood, swearing to serve each other and the state rather than continue fighting amongst themselves. They are attended to by servants who bring over lavish dishes to a table set in the middle. In the background, people admire the peach trees in full bloom, suggesting that the country is at last at peace. Peach symbolism features frequently in Chinese and Japanese art, thought to confer longevity or even immortality once eaten. See British Museum: https: //www. britishmuseum. org/collection/object/A_2008-3037-20002