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Hotaru
Edo
The subject of this print is "Hotaru", the twenty-fifth chapter from The Tale of Genji. In this scene, Genji and Lady Tamakatsura are having a conversation outdoors. The fireflies scattered around them remind us of the chapter`s title.
At the top, a fan-shaped panel frames a poem from the chapter:
"Koehasete mi wo nomi kogasu hotarukoso ifuyori masaru omohinaru rame".
"こゑはせて身をのみ焦かす蛍こそいふよりまさる思ひなるらめ"。
"The unspoken love of the burning firefly is deeper than the words you spoke out."
Genji is in an advantageous position without opponents, having delegated many responsibilities to To no Chujo. Tamakatsura, troubled after a confession from Genji, distrusts him despite his remorseful and fatherly behavior. Genji encourages the young woman
to meet Sochi no Miya, but she shows no interest, and Sochi no Miya leaves the palace disappointed.
At an event held at the Lady of the Village of Falling Flowers, Genji and the lady discuss other nobles, with her showing interest in Sochi no Miya and Higekuro. The lady leaves Genji alone for the night, despite him being willing to stay.
During the rainy season, the women remain indoors reading and copying stories. Genji finds Tamakatsura reading and starts a discussion about literature. Murasaki, also passionate about literature, is encouraged by Genji not to share immoral stories with Princess Akashi.
Yugiri often visits his half-sister, remembering past times with Kumoi, whom he couldn`t marry. This reignites a rivalry with Kashiwagi, similar to that between their fathers. To no Chujo, the father of many children, continues to reflect on the loss of Yuugao,
unaware that Tamakatsura is his daughter.
Makibashira
Edo
At the top, a fan-shaped panel frames a poem from the chapter which content The content is depicted in the image below, where a man holds a branch and a message in his right hand:
"Ima wa tote ya tokare na tomo nare kitsuru maki no hashira ni ware o wasuruna".
"いまはとてやとかれなともなれきつるまきのはしらにわれをわするな"。
"Now that I am leaving, even if I should be forgotten, do not forget the bond we made, marked on the trunk of the tree."
In the 31st chapter of "The Tale of Genji," Tamakatsura reluctantly becomes Higekuro`s lover and soon finds herself pregnant, leading to a secret marriage sanctioned by To no Chujo.
Amidst a complex backdrop of familial and court tensions, Tamakatsura navigates her forced marriage and the emotional and social repercussions that follow, including estrangement from Higekuro and reflections on missed opportunities.
Her story intertwines with Genji`s, highlighting themes of unfulfilled love and societal obligations within the Heian court`s intricate relationships.
USD$ 153.00
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Geisha from New Yoshiwara
Edo
This print depicts a lively street scene from the Meiji or late Edo period, focusing on three women, likely sex workers from the licensed quarter, dressed in colorful kimonos as they walk
together at night, illuminated by a lantern carried by one of them. In the background, a traditional row of shops and tea houses can be seen, with one prominently named Tsuruya, capturing the vibrant urban
life of the time.
The attention to detail in the women`s attire and the architectural elements reflects the rich culture and everyday life of historical Japan.
Hatsune
Edo
On New Year`s morning, Genji visits the women of his palace: he once again declares his unconditional love for Murasaki, finds the Princess of Akashi playing with the children, and enjoys pleasant company with the Lady of the Village of Falling Flowers.
Later, he spends the night with the Lady of Akashi, causing Murasaki to become jealous. The following day, during a New Year`s reception, the ladies can only hear distant echoes of the songs from their rooms. Genji also visits Suetsumuhana, finding her dull as always
but ensuring that she lives in comfort. Finally, he extends his New Year`s greetings to Utsusemi, who has become a nun, lamenting her decision to leave the world behind. The celebrations conclude with a New Year`s pantomime, during which Yugiri stands out as a musician,
making his father proud of his many talents.
USD$ 149.00