Tale of a Strange Marriage (Konkai Zoshi) 1848 - 1859

"Tale of a Strange Marriage (Konkai Zoshi)" is a handscroll painting created by Ukita Ikkei, a prominent Japanese artist of the Edo period, between 1848 and 1859. The scroll depicts a scene from a popular folktale, where a fox spirit disguised as a beautiful woman tricks a man into marriage, showcasing the detailed brushwork and vibrant colors typical of Japanese art. The scroll’s long format allows for a panoramic view of the story, creating an immersive narrative experience for the viewer. The artwork is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, and continues to be admired for its exquisite craftsmanship and captivating storytelling.