Cherry Blossoms

Another reason I'm obsessed with this dress:

It reminds me of Hokusai's "36 Views" prints.




These are part of the same series that inlcudes this more recognizable piece:


These were printed during the 1830's when orientalism was at its height, and there was renewed trade interest with Japan. There are actually 46 prints in the collection, but 36 is a perfect number in the culture, one of reverence and holiness.

I love being an art history dork.