Home > Arts > Artists > Katsushika Hokusai > Woodblock prints
Poem by Emperor Tenchi... 1835-36. Creator: Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, 1760-1849)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Poem by Emperor Tenchi... 1835-36. Creator: Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, 1760-1849)
Poem by Emperor Tenchi, from the series One Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets Explained by the Nurse, 1835-36. This autumn landscape with rice farmers and travelers is from Katsushika Hokusais series of prints inspired by the anthology One Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets ( Hyakunin isshu uba ga etoki ). While traveling through the countryside, like the two figures in the center, a sudden storm forced the Emperor Tenchi (reigned 661-72) to take shelter in a rice farmers hut. The experience produced tears of sympathy for the common people toiling under heavy burdens and living in rough, flimsy homes. The poem at the upper right next to the cartouche reads: Lying on the rough Mats of rice-harvest guards In the autumn fields, I find the sleeves of my robe wet. Is the dew so heavy?
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 19623702
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1615 1868 1760 1849 Katsushika Hokusai Katsushika Hokusai Japanese Colour Woodblock Print
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Katsushika Hokusai
> Arts
> Artists
> Katsushika Hokusai
> Woodblock prints
> Arts
> Artists
> Katsushika Hokusai
> Arts
> Landscape paintings
> Rural countryside paintings
> Landscape paintings
> Asia
> Japan
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Cleveland
> Popular Themes
> Poets
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print by Katsushika Hokusai, titled "Poem by Emperor Tenchi" transports us to a serene autumn landscape in ancient Japan. Inspired by the anthology One Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets, this artwork depicts rice farmers and travelers seeking shelter during a sudden storm. In the center of the image, two figures find refuge in a humble rice farmer's hut, mirroring an experience that Emperor Tenchi himself had centuries ago. As he traveled through the countryside, he was caught off guard by inclement weather and sought solace among common people. This encounter moved him deeply, evoking tears of empathy for those burdened with laborious tasks and living in fragile dwellings. The poem inscribed at the upper right corner next to the cartouche adds another layer of emotion to this poignant scene. It reads: "Lying on the rough Mats of rice-harvest guards In the autumn fields, I find the sleeves of my robe wet. Is the dew so heavy?". These words capture both vulnerability and resilience as they express surprise at how even nature's gentle touch can leave its mark. Through his masterful use of color woodblock printing techniques, Hokusai brings this historical moment to life with exquisite detail and atmospheric beauty. This artwork not only showcases Hokusai's artistic prowess but also serves as a reminder of our shared humanity across time and cultures.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.