Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, "Ghost of Akugenta Toshihira Attacks Namba Jiro at Nunobiki Waterfall"

As with most cultures, possession and hauntings are popularly held beliefs in Japan where the spirits of others can return in benevolent or malevolent forms. In this striking piece, the warrior Yoshihira returns to life in the form of a Thunder God after being executed by Namba Jiro, a member of the Taira clan. Yoshihara exacts revenge on his executioner by descending in swirling clouds and hurling lightning bolts at him.

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.