Dashun (Taishun), from the series "Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Piety as a Mirror for Children (Nijushiko doji kagami)" c. 1843

This woodblock print, "Dashun (Taishun)", is part of the series "Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Piety as a Mirror for Children (Nijushiko doji kagami)" by the renowned Japanese artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi. Created around 1843, it depicts the story of Dashun, a boy who used his ingenuity to drive away a swarm of birds from his family's rice field. The image is a vibrant representation of Kuniyoshi’s signature style, blending realistic detail with fantastical elements, as seen in the depiction of the elephants and the birds. The dynamic composition and expressive use of color contribute to the captivating storytelling and engaging narrative present in the artwork. This print, like many others in the series, aimed to educate children about filial piety, highlighting the importance of respect and obedience towards one’s parents.