Ushiwakamaru at Gojō Bridge 1882

This woodblock print depicts Ushiwakamaru, the childhood name of the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune, poised atop Gojō Bridge. He stands on a radiant full moon, a symbol laden with cross-cultural significance. The moon here transcends its literal form, evolving into a stage for the young hero's exploits. Consider how the moon has been a silent witness to human drama, from ancient lunar deities to its appearance in countless paintings. Just as Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, is often represented with the moon, the moon in this print echoes the tales of gods and heroes; it is a cyclical symbol, forever resurfacing, evolving, and accumulating new layers of meaning across history. This recurring motif engages the viewers, triggering a collective subconscious response.