Mario and Luigi Get a Makeover
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tawaraya_S%C5%8Dtatsu#/media/File:Fujinraijin-tawaraya.jpg
They’re making another appearance in godlike form, but this time they’ll be immortalized in a ukiyo-e woodblock print and available to the public for purchase thanks to a Kyoto-based artist specializing in traditional art technique.
The art is based on a national treasure dating back to the 17th century, Fujin-Raijin-zu by Tawaraya Sotatsu, showing Raijin on the left and Fujin on the right.
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http://en.rocketnews24.com/2016/02/13/nintendos-super-mario-bros-appear-as-the-gods-of-wind-thunder-in-new-ukiyo-e-woodblock-print/
In the new woodblock print, Luigi takes on the role of Fujin, one of the eldest Shinto gods, who is traditionally portrayed as a red-haired demon with green skin. Luigi keeps his shoes on for the role and looks a lot less terrifying than the original, while carrying a large bag of wind on his shoulders. Well-known villains Lakitu and Bullet Bill also make an appearance in the background.
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http://en.rocketnews24.com/2016/02/13/nintendos-super-mario-bros-appear-as-the-gods-of-wind-thunder-in-new-ukiyo-e-woodblock-print/
Mario, as the god of lightning, thunder and storms, holds a drumstick in each hand and is surrounded by a ring of stars instead of the usual drums Raijin strikes to create thunder.
![](https://imgcp.aacdn.jp/img-a/600/auto/global-aaj-front/article/2016/02/56c0f5ad76c07_56c0f56532ccb_1705683894.jpg)
http://en.rocketnews24.com/2016/02/13/nintendos-super-mario-bros-appear-as-the-gods-of-wind-thunder-in-new-ukiyo-e-woodblock-print/
While the images are beautiful and humorous, there’s actually a skilled craftsman behind the project, using centuries-old printing techniques to create the final image, which is limited to a run of 90 prints in total. The end result is a beautiful framed picture priced at ¥194,400 (US$1,734.40). Instead of using traditional Japanese paper known as washi, a layer of gold leaf is used, making this one expensive yet beautiful piece of art.
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Read full story: en.rocketnews24.com