Phoenix and Lobster – Utagawa Kuniyoshi

A vast phoenix descends toward a bright red lobster against a restless background of curling waves in this striking woodblock print by Japanese artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi. The unlikely encounter brings together two creatures of dramatically different worlds, creating a scene that feels mythical, playful, and full of movement.

Created around 1839–41, the work belongs to Kuniyoshi’s series Birds and Beasts. Sweeping wings, extended claws, twisting antennae, and tightly patterned water fill the composition with energy, while the strong blue, black, and coral palette gives the print an unusually graphic quality.

Utagawa Kuniyoshi was one of the most inventive artists of the late Edo period. Celebrated for his warriors, supernatural creatures, animals, and visual humor, he transformed traditional woodblock printing through bold scale, dramatic action, and unexpected combinations of subjects.

Artwork Details

• Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi
• Title: Phoenix and Lobster
• Original title: Taihō, Ebi
• Series: Birds and Beasts
• Japanese series title: Kinjū zue
• Date: Circa 1839–41
• Period: Edo period
• Place of origin: Japan
• Medium: Color woodblock print
• Format: Ōban tate-e, vertical print
• Publisher: Jōshūya Kinzō
• Original dimensions: Approximately 37 × 25 cm / 14.6 × 9.8 in

Print & Frame Details

• Fine Art Printing: Printed using advanced 12-color fine art printing technology for rich, accurate colors and detailed tonal depth.
• Paper: Smooth, high-quality matte paper with a clean, glare-free finish.
• Paper Weight: 200 gsm / 80 lb.
• Frame Material: Durable pine wood.
• Frame Profile: Approximately 20 mm thick and 10–14 mm wide.
• Protection: Lightweight, shatterproof plexiglass protects the artwork.
• Available Sizes: Offered in a range of sizes to suit different rooms and wall arrangements.
• Responsibly Sourced: Printed on FSC-certified paper and framed with responsibly sourced wood.
• Made to Order: Each piece is produced especially for your order, helping to reduce unnecessary stock and waste.
• Worldwide Shipping: Produced through our international network of trusted print studios and shipped worldwide.