Ryozen Hoshi (The Monk Ryozen), Poet No. 70

Comparison of the Ogura One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each -  Handsome design from a terrific series pairing a verse from the best-loved collection of Japanese poetry, "The One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each," with figures from Japanese history or theater. Hiroshige, Kuniyoshi, and Kunisada each designed prints for the series. Divided into two parts, the first group of prints features a poem next to the series title, while the second half includes a fan-shaped inset with a portrait of the featured poet. A wonderful and unusual series with great designs by the top artists of the mid-19th century. These prints would make great additions to any ukiyo-e collection.

Ryozen Hoshi (The Monk Ryozen), Poet No. 70 - Dramatic scene of Ishidome Busuke drawing a sword as his sister Ohana cowers behind him, one arm wrapped around his shoulder. She peers over his back, her tie-died kimono trailing on the floor behind her, The wind blows the tassels hanging from lanterns above, adding a sense of movement. The verse by the monk Ryozen reads:

In my loneliness
I leave my little hut.
When I look around,
Everywhere it is the same:
One lone, darkening autumn eve.

A handsome design with fine bokashi shading on the water and ground.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 8 5/8" + left margin as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Stitching holes at side, thinning at corners, repaired. A few wrinkles at edges, stain. Please see photos for details.