This is an illustration that Hokusai drew for the kyoka e-hon (picture book of poetry), titled ‘Itako Zekku’ published in 1802.

The book became very popular when first published, but ran up against sumptuary regulations of the day, as the government was promoting frugal living patterns, and it was repressed. It seems though, that the book was later republished.

Two courtesans are talking about what they saw in their dreams. The mosquito net and floor are colored with very delicate bokashi technique. The patterns of the ladies' kimono and very fine hair lines are well depicted. Hokusai drew the drowsy and relaxing, yet beautiful, scene very well.

The right side poem is read: 少し休もうと うたた寝すれば ぬしの夢見てまた ふさぐ I attempted to rest and snoozed, then dreamt of my lover, which left me feeling depressed. Her lover, her favorite customer, stayed and spent the night with her, but it appears he has since left for home.

The left poem is read: 明けのカラスと 鶏憎い かはい男の 目を覚ます I hate the crow and rooster in the early morning because they woke up my lover who was sleeping with me, and he left for home.