Kuniyoshi: Lucky Gods and Fish (Sold)

Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi
Title: Lucky Gods and Fish
Date: ca 1840s

One of the Seven Lucky Gods, Ebisu, has just put aside his fishing rod to help his fellow God, Daikokuten, to dislodge an octopus that has climbed the fishing line and decided to perch upon his head. We see from left a bonito, a flatfish, a puffer fish, a lobster and a crab, with a bream and two other fish at bottom right. All are expressing consternation with their fins and claws. Are they worried about their friend the octopus rather than the god of cooks? This is most definitely the hand of Kuniyoshi from the deft brushstrokes to the warm sense of humor. The two fish lower right seem familiar, as similar fish are shown in numerous underwater fighting scenes by Kuniyoshi.

Condition: Mounted to a modern backing sheet for strength.
Dimensions: 30.3 x 23.5 cm

SKU: DRW455