Gekko - The Cat of Kuroishi Jokyoji Temple

Ogata Gekko

A well known print from "Gekko's Essays: The Cat of Kuroishi Jokyoji Temple in Rikushu"

Dramatic scene from a folktale about a very faithful cat, which followed an old man's daughter everywhere. The father was concerned that the cat might cast a spell over her, so he decided that he must kill the cat. The cat overheard his plans, and spoke to him, telling him that a giant rat was in love with his daughter, and he was protecting her from being carried off by the rat. That night, the cat battled the enormous rat, which was almost as large as he was. The fight awakened the household, which rushed to the cat's aid, slitting the rat's throat, but the cat died from its wounds and was buried with honor in the local temple.

Date: 1899

Size: (H x W): 14 x 9.5 (inches)

Condition: Good condition, cropped as shown, not backed.

Medium: Woodblock Print