Katsushika Hokusai, Ukiyo-e Japanese Woodblock Print, 19th Century, 100 Poems

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Katsushika Hokusai, Ukiyo-e Japanese Woodblock Print, 19th Century, 100 Poems

About the Item

Artist: Katsushika Hokusai (1760 - 1849) Title: A Poem by the Monk Henjo Series: One Hundred Poems Narrated by the Nurse Publisher: Eijudoh-Nishimuraya Yohachi Published: circa 1835-1838 Size: 25 cm x 36.5 cm Condition: Vertical centrefold, supportive backing applied. Faint pencil marks on the back. Slight discolouration around the edges from the previous backing. This print is from the series of 'One Hundred Poems Narrated by the Nurse', which was published between 1835 and 1838: the last major production of woodblock prints by Hokusai. After that, the artist focused on Japanese traditional paintings until his death. The aim of this series was to make authentic writings of 'Hyakunin-isshu' (a collection of Tanka poems from 7th-13th century) easy to understand. The prints create an intimate atmosphere, which is referenced in the title of this series, making it seem as if the poems are being relayed by a foster mother. Hokusai created 100 designs in total, however, only 27 images were published due to the publisher's bankruptcy. The scene depicts a gagaku performance on a raised stage in the Imperial Court. The ancient Japanese music of gagaku is one of the oldest musical ensemble traditions in the world. The music was restricted to the court; its appreciation and performance indicating a cultured upbringing to the courtiers themselves. Reaching its highest point of popularity in the late Heian period, the music would find itself in decline until its patronisation by the Tokugawa government in the Edo period. The translation of the poem is as follows: Stormy winds blow through the paths Among the clouds and close their gates To string along with the beautiful celestial maiden On earth.

Creator:
Hokusai (Artist)
Dimensions:
Height: 9.85 in (25 cm)Width: 14.38 in (36.5 cm)Depth: 0.04 in (1 mm)
Style:
Edo (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Paper,Hand-Crafted
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Early 19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1839
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Vertical centrefold, supportive backing applied. Faint pencil marks on the back. Slight discolouration around the edges from the previous backing.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
Seller: DUC2531stDibs: LU240437655353