Comments - Fantastic image of a diving girl recovering the stolen jewel from the underwater palace of the Dragon King. The awabe diver holds the jewel in one hand close to her body as she raises a knife above her head to defend herself against the dragon and the myriad of sea creatures chasing her. The dragon snarls fiercely, bursting over the top of the waves, as octopuses and fishes follow alongside in the sweeping curve of water. A dynamic design with a wonderful sense of movement, beautifully detailed and colored. A terrific illustration from this legendary tale, rarely seen in reprint.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 15" x 9 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Please see photos for details. Good overall.