Nanke (Fujiwara)

The Nanke was a cadet branch of the Fujiwara clan. It was founded by Fujiwara no Muchimaro

Fujiwara no Muchimaro

was a Japanese politician of the Asuka and Nara periods. The eldest son of Fujiwara no Fuhito, he founded Nanke , one of the principal kuge families led by the Fujiwara's. His mother was Soga no Shōsi, daughter of Soga no Murajiko...

Muchimaro had three brothers: Fusasaki

Fujiwara no Fusasaki

Fujiwara no Fusasaki was a member of the Fujiwara clan and the founder of the Hokke branch of the Fujiwara.-Career:Fusasaki was a Sangi in the Daijō-kan....

, and Maro

Fujiwara no Maro

was a Japanese statesman, courtier, and politician during the Nara period.-Career:Maro was a minister during the reign of Emperor Shōmu....

 and Umakai

Fujiwara no Umakai

was a Japanese statesman, courtier, general and politician during the Nara period.-Career:He was a diplomat during the reign of Empress Genshō; and he was minister during the reign of Emperor Shōmu...

. These four brothers are known for having established the "four houses" of the Fujiwara.

The Nanke is sometimes identified as the "southern house".