Title: Antique Japanese woodblock print of two figures with birds of prey
Shipping: $29.00
Artist: N/A
Period: 18th Century
History: N/A
Origin: N/A
Condition: N/A
Item Date: N/A
Item ID: 482
This is a rare 18th-19th-century Japanese woodblock print featuring birds of prey, samurai, and geisha women training their birds. The defined lines in this beautiful print are absolutely amazing, showcasing the high level of skill and craftsmanship executed in this depiction of unity. Although the condition is poor, the beauty lies in the washed-out colors and the worn-out paper, creating a unique patina. The print measures approximately 13 1/2 x 9 1/4 inches. Birds of prey were highly prized by the samurai, and their training and care were taken very seriously. They were often given names and treated as members of the samurai's family. The birds were also adorned with intricate leather jesses, bells, and other decorative accessories, adding to their status as valued companions of the samurai. Today, while birds of prey are no longer used in the same way as they were by the samurai, they are still highly valued for their hunting and military abilities. Many people continue to train and care for these magnificent creatures, ensuring that their legacy lives on.
Birds of prey, also known as raptors, were highly valued by the samurai of Japan during the 18th and 19th centuries. The samurai used these birds for hunting, as well as for military purposes. One of the most popular birds used by the samurai was the Peregrine Falcon. These birds were trained to hunt other birds, such as pigeons and doves. They were also used to hunt small game, such as rabbits and hares. The Peregrine Falcon was valued for its speed, agility, and hunting prowess, making it a perfect companion for the samurai. Another bird commonly used by the samurai was the Harris's Hawk. This bird was smaller than the Peregrine Falcon, but it was still an effective hunter. The Harris's Hawk was trained to hunt in groups, with multiple birds working together to take down larger prey, such as rabbits and hares. The samurai also used other birds of prey, such as the Goshawk and the Sparrowhawk, for hunting and military purposes. These birds were trained to attack enemy soldiers and messengers, causing chaos and confusion on the battlefield. The training of these birds was a specialized skill that was passed down from generation to generation. The samurai would start training the birds at a young age, teaching them to respond to specific commands and to hunt specific prey. The birds were also fitted with leather hoods, called "hawking hoods," to keep them calm and focused during the hunt.
