Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, "Shoki Capturing a Demon in a Dream"

jThe deity Shoki originates from a legendary figure of China's Tang Dynasty, Chung Kuei who is believed to have devoted his immortal energy to vanquishing all demons from China. He is also said to have appeared in the Chinese's Emperor Ming Huang's dreams and cured him of an illness. Shoki would later be adapted into Japanese iconography and culture. Here, Shoki is shown with his typical military attire, hat with streamers, a sword, and heavy belt battling demons. An oni in the background cowers. 

Series: New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts
Date 1889
Size: Oban
Publisher: Sasaki Toyokichi
Condition: Excellent color and condition (original album backing; light trimming)
Shown in Classic Wood, Walnut Frame

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s (1839-1892) Shinkei sanjurokkaissen (New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts) series of woodblock prints was the artist’s last series of works completed between 1889 and 1892 before his death. The prints from this series are exemplary of Yoshitoshi’s long interest on macabre and dark subjects, and is illustrative of his unique abilities to channel these subjects into beautifully captivating compositions. Tokaido Arts is pleased to offer a selection from one of Yoshitoshi’s most famous series of woodblock prints.