- "Ukifune” (A Boat upon the Waters) from The Tale of Genji -

The remarkable print "Ukifune” (A Boat upon the Waters) from The Tale of Genji is by Kaoru Saito. The Tale of Genji is a renowned work of Japanese literature written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century during the Heian period. The novel depicts the life of Hikaru Genji, the son of an emperor, and offers an intimate portrayal of the aristocratic society of the time.

Behind the Story Depicted in This Image

“Ukifune” is the name of the final heroine in The Tale of Genji. The chapter is named after her. Literally, Ukifune means “A Boat upon the Waters.” She is loved by the two main characters, Kaoru and Niō no Miya (Prince Niō), and she, in turn, has feelings for both of them.

This print shows Ukifune being taken by a small boat by Niō no Miya (Prince Niō) to his cottage, thus betraying Kaoru. It is also said that the chapter’s name is derived from a waka poem she composed at that time:

“Your heart may be as unchanging as the color of the small island covered with tangerines, but my body is unstable, like a small boat floating on the water, and I do not know where I might drift.”

Torn between their affections, she attempts to take her own life but fails. Ultimately, Ukifune renounces the world and becomes a nun.

In this print, Kaoru Saito beautifully portrays the small boat in the rough waves of the river, symbolizing Ukifune’s forbidden, fleeting dream and her fragile emotional state.

Technique: Aquatint, Mezzotint, and Engraving 
Paper size: 15 inches wide by 17 and 3/4 inches tall (38 x 45 cm)
Image size: 8 and 1/2 inches wide by 8 and 3/4 inches tall (21.5 x 22.5 cm)
Sheet number: 8/85 
Date: 1990
Signed: Pencil signed by the artist
Condition: Excellent condition

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