In
1825 Ryutei Tanehiko began a serial novel called "Nise Murasaki Inaka
Genji" (The Imitation Murasaki and the Rustic Genji), which follows the
story line of the original novel "The Tale of Genji" by Lady Murasaki
Shikibu (978 -1014). However, 'The Rustic Genji" is set in the 15th century,
and the love affairs of Prince Genji take place in the licensed quarters,
rather than at court as in the original novel.
The popularity of "The Rustic Genji" inspired many prints and series of
prints. Many artists designed comparable prints associating courtesans
with different chapters of "The Tale of Genji". This print is one such
print. Different Genji crests were assigned to each of the chapters. The
lanterns, and parts of the design in the clothes worn by the lady on the
right of the Go board, are decorated with the Genji crest representing
Chapter Three. This print features Genji watching two ladies at the Go
board. In Chapter Three of "The Tale of Genji", Prince Genji watches
Utsusemi play Go with her sister. |
