Namazu-e refers to a genre of Japanese woodblock prints (ukiyo-e) that depict namazu, or giant catfish. In Japanese mythology, these catfish are believed to cause earthquakes. The god Kashima is often portrayed as subduing these creatures with a sword, representing his role in controlling earthquakes.

In this work, a humorous and seemingly impossible task is presented—catching a large, slippery catfish using a gourd, an object ill-suited for the task. This reflects a Zen-like paradox or challenge and can be seen as a metaphor for the absurdity or difficulty of controlling natural disasters, much like controlling a namazu with a gourd or Kashima controlling it with a sword.

You'll receive a 100% combed and ring-spun, soft-feel cotton tee.