Kuniyoshi: Prayer for Rain at Ryozen-ga-saki (Sold)

Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi
Title:  Prayer for Rain at Ryozen-ga-saki, Kamakura, 1271
Date: ca. 1831

The monk Nichiren prays for rain and is immediately rewarded with a downpour. This event takes place at the Ryôzengasaki in Kamakura in 1271. Considered the second-greatest design in this famous series, there is drama in the rain and drama in the waves and drama in Nichiren’s acolytes as they witness this miracle. Bun-ei hachi Kamakura Ryôzangasaki ame inoru. Nichiren was the founder of the esoteric Buddhist Nichiren sect. The year 1831 marked the 550th anniversary of his death and it is thought that this series may have been designed as a tribute. Kuniyoshi was a follower of the Nichiren sect and was buried at the Daisenji, a temple of this denomination. 

Condition:  Very good impression and condition. Good color.
Series:  Concise Illustrated Biography of Monk Nichiren Koso go-ichidai ryakuzu       
Publisher:  Iseya Rihei
Signature: Ichiyûsai Kuniyoshi ga
Literature:  See "Heroes & Ghosts", plate 206, page 187.  See BM, MET, MFA online.

SKU: KUC203