The artwork, “People stopping to admire the gourd that miraculously appeared at the time of the birth of Prince Shôtoku,” was created by Utagawa Kuniyoshi in 1840. It belongs to the Ukiyo-e art movement and is classified under the genre of mythological painting.
In this vibrant artwork, a scene is meticulously depicted where multiple figures have paused to marvel at a miraculous gourd. The gourd is notable for its extraordinary appearance that coincided with the birth of Prince Shôtoku. The characters, adorned in traditional Japanese attire, are clustered on a picturesque pathway, surrounded by verdant foliage and a serene landscape. There is a palpable sense of wonder and reverence as they observe the gourd, symbolizing a significant event tied to the prince’s birth. The piece is rich in cultural detail, showcasing the elegance and narrative complexity emblematic of Ukiyo-e style.
