New Release : Kuniyoshi Loves Cats
This season, we are pleased to re-issue the beloved light blue colorway in both a cotton aloha shirt and short sleeve tee. Crafted from soft and breathable cotton fabric, these pieces offer a gentle warmth and comfortable feel, making them ideal for slightly cool and breezy days while maintaining a light and relaxed seasonal style.
One of Pagong’s three Museum Collection patterns inspired by the great ukiyo-e masters of the Edo period, “Kuniyoshi Loves Cats!” is a playful and charming design based on two original ukiyo-e works by Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797–1861), who lived in Edo, present-day Tokyo.
Born as the son of a kimono silk dyer, Kuniyoshi entered the world of ukiyo-e woodblock printmaking from the young age of twelve. As he grew into a celebrated artist, he became widely known for his depictions of Kabuki actors and elegant courtesans. However, when the ruling shogunate placed restrictions on prints portraying actors and courtesans, Kuniyoshi turned his attention toward another beloved subject—cats.
Deeply fond of felines, Kuniyoshi began creating humorous and expressive works featuring his own cats, often describing them as “cats that have been well-loved.” Through witty compositions and playful storytelling, he brought cats to life as if they were humans themselves. It is even said that while working, one of his cats would often sleep peacefully within the folds of his kimono.
The Pagong pattern “Kuniyoshi Loves Cats!” was created using elements from two of Kuniyoshi’s famous works: “Neko no Hyakumensou” and “Hayarineko no Tawamure.”
