Cat and Mouse c. 1780

Isoda Koryūsai's "Cat and Mouse" (c. 1780) is a striking example of the "hashira-e" (pillar print) format, a popular style of Japanese woodblock print that was meant to adorn pillars in homes. This particular print depicts a woman holding a cat, while another woman sits below, seemingly occupied with a mouse. The intricate details of the women's clothing, the delicate branches of the flowering tree, and the latticework fence add depth and visual interest to this captivating artwork.