Lithograph 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 shows 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. Kashima is the God of Thunder, and he appears in some prints. 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. Original Edo era namazu-e are rarely seen and can be quite expensive. These lithograph reproductions of ukiyo-e subjects are a great way to collect these creative and imaginative designs. Please note, this is a lithograph, not a woodblock.
Artist - Edo era artist (unsigned)
Image Size - 10" x 14 5/8"
Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Slight paper remnants on reverse at top edge from original publisher mounting. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.
Shopping Fuji Arts Clearance-
We sell thousands of clearance prints every year in our three ultra-low price categories. Start collecting, purchase an inexpensive print, or discover something special in Fuji Arts Clearance. Notable collectors worldwide shop the clearance regularly.
What prints are in Fuji Arts Clearance?
- Prints that have moved through our auctions and will sell below cost.
- Overstocked prints.
- Prints with condition issues.
Use the item page and photos to shop clearance. We don’t offer support for clearance purchasing (additional photos or enhanced identifications). All available information is on the item page. Clearance prints are final sale.
Shipping minimums: We do not ship orders totaling less than $24.99.
