Sparrows and Dandelions

Japanese poetry and art with "Spring Rain Collection (Harusame shū), vol. 3: Sparrows and Dandelions." This exquisite woodblock print is part of a privately published series of surimono, which were commissioned as New Year's greeting cards. Created during the Edo period (1615–1868), this print showcases the poetic and artistic talents of Teisai Hokuba, an artist who was deeply influenced by his master, Katsushika Hokusai.

Surimono Artistry: Surimono prints were highly regarded as artistic expressions of the highest order in Japan. They were often commissioned by poets and poetry groups to convey New Year's greetings and featured witty thirty-one syllable verses known as kyōka. These verses, like the one in this print, are filled with felicitous imagery associated with spring, aligning with the start of the lunar calendar.

Elegant Imagery: "Spring Rain Collection (Harusame shū), vol. 3" features delicate and graceful imagery. Sparrows, symbols of spring and renewal, are depicted alongside dandelions, emphasizing the arrival of the season. The composition exudes a sense of freshness and the beauty of nature's awakening.

Teisai Hokuba's Artistry: Teisai Hokuba, a pupil of the renowned ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai, was known for his skills as a painter. In this woodblock print, he demonstrates his mastery by eliminating outlines and using subtle gradated ink tones. The manual wiping of the printing blocks adds a painterly quality to the artwork.

Dimensions: This print measures 8 3/8 x 7 1/2 inches (21.3 x 19.1 cm), making it a compact yet visually captivating piece of art that can be appreciated up close.

Cultural Significance: "Spring Rain Collection (Harusame shū), vol. 3" offers a glimpse into the cultural and artistic traditions of Edo-period Japan. It reflects the importance of poetry, nature, and the changing seasons in Japanese art and daily life.

Collectible Art: This woodblock print is a collectible piece of art that allows you to own a part of Japan's rich artistic heritage. It is a testament to the craftsmanship of Teisai Hokuba and the enduring appeal of surimono prints.

"Spring Rain Collection (Harusame shū), vol. 3: Sparrows and Dandelions" is a celebration of spring and the poetic beauty of nature. Whether you are an art collector, a lover of Japanese culture, or simply appreciate the elegance of traditional art, this surimono print will add a touch of sophistication and cultural richness to your collection.