Gio and Hotoke, 1884

by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Current Status

Gio and Hotoke, 1884 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Original Chikanobu (1838 - 1912) Japanese Woodblock Print
Gio and Hotoke, 1884

Comments - Intriguing scene from the story of Gio and Hotoke as told in the "Heike Monogatari." Gio was a popular shirabyoshi dancer and a special favorite of Taira no Kiyomori. When Kiyomori fell in love with a new and younger dancer named Hotoke gozen, Gio was forced to retire against her will, becoming a nun along with her sister and mother. Here, the stern-looking Kiyomori grasps Hotoke gozen by the hand. She turns her head away in guilt, hiding her face with her sleeve as Gio bows respectfully behind her, two child attendants at her side. The verandah overlooks a beautiful garden pond with a small waterfall and bridge. The palace stretches out along the right, crowded with samurai attending a party in the back. Two children kneel beside a set of burnished black lacquer steps at right, waiting for the daimyo to pass by. In the end, the guilt-ridden Hotoke became a nun as well, and forgiven by Gio, the four women served their days out together in prayer. Beautifully drawn with wonderful detail in the sumptuous fabrics and setting. A handsome image with delicate embossing in the white kimono collars and touches of burnishing.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14" x 27 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few small holes and thinning spots, small loss at top corner in margin, repaired. Slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Gio and Hotoke, 1884 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Gio and Hotoke, 1884 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

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