Title : Taira no Kiyomori Encountering the Ghost of Yoshihira at Nunobiki Falls

Artist : Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Date : c. 1843 - 1847

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : In the early 1820s, Kuniyoshi began utilizing panoramic triptychs that showcased his ability to describe fiery action and explosive power. This print depicts the ghost of Yoshihira rising on a ball of flames, striking down his enemies with dynamic bolts of lightning. The artist used monochrome to impart an eerie appearance to the ghost, unlike his foes, who are depicted in elaborate and colorful robes and costumes. The dramatic stance of the central figure—with hands stretched out—is derived from Kabuki Theater, one of Kuniyoshi’s main sources of inspiration. "Imagination, Power Humor: The Art of Utagawa Kuniyoshi" 10/14/2010 - 12/19/2010 **************************************** Kuniyoshi began creating dynamic triptychs based on historical legends and literary themes in the early 1820s, including a number of heroic scenes that show his ability to describe fiery action and explosive power. In this version of the Ghost of Yoshihiro at Nunobiki Falls, the ghost rises on a ball of flames striking down his adversaries with dynamic bolts of lightning. The ghost retains an eerie appearance, created by the artist's use of monochrome. This is in contrast to his foes, whom are depicted in the elaborate robes and costumes of the day. In addition, the dramatic stance of the central figure with hands stretched out along with his open mouth, as if in a roar, is right out of Kabuki theater, one of Kuniyoshi's main sources of inspiration. (Tattoo exhibition 2005)

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