Praying for Rain

by Eishi (1756 - 1829)

Current Status

Praying for Rain by Eishi (1756 - 1829)

Eishi (1756 - 1829) Japanese Woodblock Reprint
Praying for Rain

Series; Fashionable Versions of the Seven Komachi

Praying for Rain - Attractive Eishi design of two beauties strolling along the riverside as it begins to rain. The woman at right pauses to point out the turtle on the shore below, smiling back at her companion. In the distance, three women arrive at a teahouse by boat, an attendant with an umbrella waiting to greet them. A charming scene from a series pairing modern beauties with the seven famous episodes in the life of the ninth-century poet Ono no Komachi. This subject recalls the tale of Komachi saving Japan from a severe drought by praying for rain. Beautifully drawn and colored in soft shades of gray with blue accents. A lovely print.

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 - Eishi (1756 - 1829)

Image Size - 14 5/8" x 9 3/4" + top margin as shown

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

Praying for Rain by Eishi (1756 - 1829)
Praying for Rain by Eishi (1756 - 1829)