Katsushika Hokusai “Dragon”

Katsushika Hokusai's "Dragon," painted on the ceiling of the Higashimachi festival float in Obuse, Nagano Prefecture, has been meticulously transformed into a Nishijin-ori textile masterpiece. Each scale is intricately woven with exceptional detail, capturing the dynamic energy of the original artwork. The fiery red background of the dragon is rendered in a three-dimensional manner through the incorporation of pure gold and platinum leaf, enhancing the visual depth and vibrancy of the piece.

This textile, crafted using the traditional Nishijin-ori technique, offers a unique texture and ambiance, elevating Hokusai's work beyond the realm of ukiyo-e. The fusion of Hokusai's artistic legacy with the luxurious craftsmanship of Nishijin-ori results in a piece that embodies both historical significance and contemporary elegance.

Hokusai's "Dragon" was painted in 1844 on the ceiling of the Higashimachi festival float in Obuse, Nagano Prefecture. The painting features a dragon set against a fiery red background, symbolizing strength and vitality. This artwork, along with a phoenix painting on the opposite side, represents the Chinese concept of Yin and Yang, enhancing the decorative effect of the stage through their contrasting symbolism and colors.. 

The Higashimachi float, adorned with Hokusai's paintings, is one of the two floats he created, marking his only three-dimensional works. These floats are now preserved and on permanent display at the Hokusai-kan Museum in Obuse, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details and historical significance of Hokusai's late masterpieces.

With genuine gold and platinum leaf

Size:
H. approx. 65.0cm  (25.6 in.) 
W. approx. 65.0cn  (25.6 in.)
D. approx. 3.5cm  (1.4 in.)