Ushiwakamaru and Jôrurihime (mitate)
Katsukawa Shunchō
Description
Subject Matter:
This print is mitate of a famous monogatari in a famous book called the Genji Monogatari by Murasaki Shikibu in 1008. This print depicts a specific story between Ushiwakamaru (aka Minamoto no Yoshitsune) and Jôrurihime. Ushiwakamaru (c. 1159 – June 15, 1189) was a celebrated samurai warrior and military commander of the Minamoto clan. On his way to Oshu, in Yahagi (currently Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture), he catches a glimpse of Jôrurihime and falls in love. This print depicts that first look. After this scene, Ushiwakamaru sneaks into Jôrurihime's bed-chamber, but by morning he leaves her to continue his travels. In Fukiagehama he falls intensely ill and a messenger sends word to Jôrurihime. Jôrurihime hurries to Fukiagehama and cures him. They part once again. In three years' time, Ushiwakamaru passes through Oshu with an army on the way to Tokyo and goes to visit Jôrurihime. Unfortunately, Jôrurihime is dead and Ushiwakamaru builds a temple in memory of her just before attacking the capital.
Physical Description:
This print depicts three individuals. One is a man on the lowest level standing outside, closest to the bottom edge. He looks up to his right and raises his arm toward a woman who looks down at him from inside the building. Above her is a bonsai tree and beside the tree is another woman who appears to be watching the interaction from above. They all wear intricate kimonos with various designs. There is a vertical inscription on the bottom right.
Usage Rights:
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