Catfish Prints - Catfish prints became popular immediately following the 1855 Ansei Earthquake in Edo, based upon a folk belief that a giant catfish or namazu caused earthquakes by thrashing its body beneath the ground. This genre of prints, called namazu-e, often showed catfishes being punished or restrained in the wake of the quake, or in comical or humorous settings dressed in human clothing, such as playing a game of go or ken. Others show people praying to the Pivot-stone of Safety (kaname-ishi) at Kashima Shrine, used by the shrine's deity to restrain and control the earthquake catfish. Some even show construction workers or lumbermen showered with money, as they benefit from the increased business caused by earthquakes. A few prints claim to protect the possessor from earthquake damage. These terrific, rare Edo era prints are great to collect.

Artist - Edo era artist (unsigned)

Image Size - 9 3/4" x 14" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. A few wormholes, small loss, repaired. Toning and soiling, stains. Please see photos for details.