Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, "Takeda Katsuchiyo & the Old Badger"

The tanuki (badger) is a shape-shifter in old Japanese folklore that was known for causing mayhem by playing tricks on travelers, hunters, or monks. Today, the tanuki has evolved into a much more benevolent creature, symbolizing generosity and joy. In this woodblock print, the young and future general Takeda Katsuchiyo discovers that a tanuki has taken the form of a wooden saddle horse and kills it.

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.