Katsuhika Hokusai – The Plate Mansion (1832)

Description

This work of art has been digitally enhanced without erasing signs of ageing for the sake of authenticity. Digital paintings are very popular right now as an affordable and stylish way to decorate and personalize your home and office.

Katsuhika Hokusai – The Plate Mansion (1832)

“The legend from 17th century tells the story of a maid named Okiku who breaks a valuable set of Korean plates. The tale varies slightly on the events that happen next. In one version, she is thrown into a well by her master; another version tells that Okiku threw herself into the well in despair. Another version tells that Okiku broke only one plate. After she is thrown into a well, she turns into a Yūrei. The neighbours hear her voice from that well every night, repeating “One… Two… Three… Eight… Nine… I can’t find last one…”After the rumors of this spread, the house was confiscated from the master. When a monk adds “ten” to Okiku’s count, she finally disappears. Yet another version tells that Okiku worked for a samurai named Aoyama Tessan from Himeji Castle who makes advances on her. After she rejects him, Aoyama deceives her into believing that she lost one of the valuable plates. Aoyama offers his forgiveness if Okiku becomes his lover. When she continues to refuse him, he throws her into a well. She then returns as a spirit to count her plates every night, “shrieking on the tenth count”.

This is a well-known ghost story in Japan. The most popular version was established in 1795, when Japan suffered an infestation of a type of worm found in old wells that became known as the “Okiku bug” (Okiku Mushi). This worm covered with thin threads made it look as though it had been bound. It was widely believed to be a reincarnation of Okiku.

Hokusai drew Okiku’s spirit as a serpent whose body is made of a plate. While Okiku is a spirit, in Hokusai’s print she resembles a rokurokubi or nure-onna. An intelligent decision on his part as these Yokai are much rarer than Yurei, making this version of Okiku scarier.”

After purchase you will have access to a PDF document with a link to these files available for download: 5×7”, 8×10”, 9×12”, 11×14”, 16×20″, 18×24″, 24×36″ and A1.

All files are in JPG format and at 300 PPI/DPI resolution. Please note that colours on your screen may be slightly different from the actual print.

This is not a physical item therefore nothing will be shipped to you.

Since these are printable downloads, refunds cannot be issued. Should you have any issues or questions please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

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