Comparison of the Ogura One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each -  Handsome design from a terrific series pairing a verse from the best-loved collection of Japanese poetry, "The One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each," with figures from Japanese history or theater. Hiroshige, Kuniyoshi, and Kunisada each designed prints for the series. Divided into two parts, the first group of prints features a poem next to the series title, while the second half includes a fan-shaped inset with a portrait of the featured poet. A wonderful and unusual series with great designs by the top artists of the mid-19th century. These prints would make great additions to any ukiyo-e collection.

Ariwara no Narihira ason, Poet No. 17 - Fantastic portrait of Kaosho Rochishin, known as the "flower monk" because of the extensive flower tattoo across his upper body. This hero from the classic tale "The Suikoden" is shown at the water's edge after toppling a temple guardian figure in a drunken rage, mistaking it for an enemy attacking. He grimaces angrily, his bulging muscles tensed and his robe pushed down around his waist. The figure leers up at him from beneath the flowing water, one arm rising above the current. The poem by Ariwara no Narihira ason reads:

Even when the gods
Held sway in the ancient days,
I have never heard
That water gleamed with autumn red
As it does in Tatta's stream

A great design from this famous story, beautifully detailed and colored.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 13 1/4" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Vertical fold in left margin. Slight separation at ends of fold, repaired. Slight soiling and rubbing, toning near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.