Comments - Fascinating scene from a kabuki play depicting the discovery of a statue of the Goddess Kannon by three fishermen. In the seventh century, fishermen pulled up a statue of the deity from the Miyako River (the former name of the Sumida River), and founded a temple to house the sacred statue in Asakusa, now known as Senso-ji. The Sansha (or Sanja) Matsuri or Three Shrine Festival is held yearly in their honor. Here, the fellow in the center pulls in a fishing net with rays of light radiating from beneath the water. The man at left holds a flaming torch high, a worried frown on his face as he watches. The boatman at right grimaces unhappily, holding his oar in the water, while a young boy kneeling beside him reaches forward with excitement. Each of the men wears a tie-dyed robe with a straw apron tied around the waist and a blue and white cloth wrapped around his neck. An intriguing scene of this famous event, with a handsomely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 29 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Wormholes and small holes, repaired. Slight soiling and creasing. Please see photos for details.