A pretty cat (called “neko” in Japanese) with blue eyes, heart-shaped pink nose and wreath of sakura or cherry blossoms on her head. She is out at night with the gorgeous, delicate pink petals of the cherry blossoms contrasting with the dark blue sky. The waka or Japanese poem on the left says:
On a mountain slope
Solitary, uncompanioned,
Stands a cherry tree.
Except for you, lonely friend,
To others I am unknown.
It was written by a 12th-century abbot named Gyoson, and translated to English in 1917 by Clay MacCauley. The translation is written at the bottom of the image.
Makes a wonderful gift for anyone who enjoys cats, Japanese themes, cherry blossoms, Spring colors or animals and flowers in general. I had a fun time drawing this cat. She was inspired by a white stray cat I sometimes see at a local park. The night sakura or yozakura theme is one of my favorites; looking forward to seeing them each Spring. I hope you like the illustration, too!
