The text that Harunobu uses as a basis for this portfolio, as well as for a similar, monochromatic series known as Modern Paragons of Women (Imayo Tsuma Kagami), is the Collection of Japanese and Chinese Verses (Wakan roei shu), compiled around the year 1012 by the calligrapher Fujiwara no Yukinari (972-1027). This non-explicit print was the frontispiece of the portfolio. The poem inscribed at the top, written by Ki no Yoshimochi (d. 919), reads:Blown by the early spring windThe plum tree secretly begins to bloomIts hundred flowers do not wait for mid-spring Before emitting their fragranceAs the season begins to change, its buds appearAnd when spring has finally arrivedIts flowers welcome the blessed rain and dew
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