A dragon climbs into cloud in this colour woodblock after Ogata Gekkō (1859–1920), a Meiji-era artist known for his atmospheric, brush-like manner. In East Asian tradition the dragon is a benevolent spirit of water and rain, a bringer of weather and good fortune rather than a creature of menace. Gekkō gives it grandeur without hardness, half-seen within the mist.
The print was made in the nishiki-e tradition, from a set of hand-carved blocks, each adding a colour or contour in careful registration. Gekkō's atmospheric touch comes from graded bokashi washes, so the dragon's body emerges and recedes within the cloud rather than standing hard against it. The effect is movement and depth held in a few quiet tones.
On a wall the image is calm yet full of life. Its soft greys and muted colour suit interiors built around natural materials, pale wood, stone and undyed textiles, where one flowing form can lead. It suits a living room, a study, or an entryway.
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A dragon climbs into cloud in this colour woodblock after Ogata Gekkō (1859–1920), a Meiji-era artist known for his atmospheric, brush-like manner. In East Asian tradition the dragon is a benevolent spirit of water and rain, a bringer of weather and good fortune rather than a creature of menace. Gekkō gives it grandeur without hardness, half-seen within the mist.
The print was made in the nishiki-e tradition, from a set of hand-carved blocks, each adding a colour or contour in careful registration. Gekkō's atmospheric touch comes from graded bokashi washes, so the dragon's body emerges and recedes within the cloud rather than standing hard against it. The effect is movement and depth held in a few quiet tones.
On a wall the image is calm yet full of life. Its soft greys and muted colour suit interiors built around natural materials, pale wood, stone and undyed textiles, where one flowing form can lead. It suits a living room, a study, or an entryway.
Each print is made to order on thick, smooth fine art paper, or framed behind shatter-resistant acrylic, or as a satin-coated cotton canvas. Choose the format that suits your wall.
Frequently asked questions
What does the dragon symbolise?
In East Asian tradition the dragon is a benevolent spirit of water and rain, a bringer of weather and good fortune rather than a creature of menace.
How was this woodblock print made?
It was printed in the nishiki-e tradition from a set of hand-carved blocks, each adding a colour or contour in careful registration.
Why does the dragon seem to dissolve into the clouds?
Gekkō's atmospheric manner uses graded bokashi washes, so the body emerges and recedes within the mist rather than standing hard against it.
Where does this print work best?
A living room, study or entryway; it suits calm interiors built around natural materials such as pale wood, stone and undyed textiles.
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Japan historical period: Meiji 明治 (1868-1912)
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