Japanese woodblock print of the Takarabune
Forani Collection
Cat. No: IN09-1480

Japanese ukiyo-e (woodblock print) of ca 1840 representing the Shichi Fukujin (Seven Gods of Good Fortune) in their Takarabune (treasure ship) by Utagawa (aka Ando, aka Ichiyusai) Hiroshige (1797-1858). 19th century, Japan. Dimensions 72.50 x 24.50 cm in vertical format, as for a kakemono (hanging scroll). Acquired: Cannes, France.

Note. The Shichi Fukujin  arrive in their Takarabune at the New Year bringing gifts of good luck and happiness including longevity, and it is at this time that illustrations of their arrival are displayed everywhere. Their popularity as a group dates from the Edo period, and their Takarabune, accompanied by cranes flying above and minogame (hair tailed turtles) swimming alongside, was a common subject of ukiyo-e in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Photo: John Noone IMG_0435.jpg