Ariko weeps in the moonlight

The story of Ariko no Naishi is featured in the Tale of the Heiki (Heiki Monogatari).In the Heian era (794-1185), Ariko was a maiden at the famous Itsukushima Shrine. She was skilled with the Biwa, and holds this instrument in this image. She falls in love with Fujiwara (Tokudaiji) no Sanesada (1139-1191), an important official. Hopeless over her unrequited love, she composes a waka poem, throws herself into Lake Biwa, sinking to the bottom. Her story was later retold in a Noh play, Ariko no Naishi.

How hopeless it is

it would be better for me to sink beneath the waves

perhaps then I could see my man from Moon Capital

Miyako, or moon capital, refers to the Heian capital of Kyoto where Sanesada was in residence. This print is one of the best of the series and is featured on the cover of Stevenson's book.