Published 1892, Chapter 8, Hana no En (Under the Cherry Blossoms) belongs to Genji gojūshi jō (Tales of Genji). Gekkō’s fifty-four Genji designs correspond to the chapters of The Tale of Genji, written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early eleventh century. By translating the court novel into Meiji-period prints, the series made a foundational work of Japanese literature available through carefully selected gestures, interiors, gardens, and seasonal references.
The plant carries seasonal and poetic associations established through court literature, painting, and decorative art; its setting and companion motifs help specify the time of year. The catalog identifies architecture, men, story, tree, and women among the principal motifs. Gekkō uses their relationship to clarify action, season, setting, and narrative emphasis rather than treating them as interchangeable decoration.
Gekkō’s print style is noted for painterly contours, soft color transitions, and reserved paper, effects achieved through the collaborative disciplines of block carving and hand printing.
Additional information
| Editions | First Edition |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Yokoyama Ryohachi |
| Size | Aiban |
| Subjects | building, men, story, tree, women |
| Year Published | 1892 |
Contribute to this Listing
Do you have information to contribute to this listing such as edition information, images, or corrections? Please submit using the form below.
