Tijgers en soldaten 1895

Mishima Shôsô crafted this woodblock print of soldiers, rich with symbols, against a backdrop dominated by a prominent moon. This celestial body, often associated with cycles of time and the ebb and flow of life, is juxtaposed here with the linear, aggressive posture of soldiers ready for battle, their rifles aimed forward. The moon, a universal emblem of change and reflection, appears throughout history, influencing art and myth. Its presence here, in a scene of militaristic readiness, is a powerful contrast. The moon, often a symbol of femininity and passivity, hangs over a scene of masculine aggression, creating a charged interplay of symbols. Think of classical depictions of the goddess Diana, or Selene, forever bound to the night. Such juxtapositions are never accidental; they resonate deep within our collective consciousness, engaging us on a primal, subconscious level. This ancient symbol, which has appeared in countless forms throughout history, reappears here. It creates a tension that invites us to consider the cyclical nature of conflict and peace, reminding us that even amidst the most aggressive acts, the potential for change and reflection remains.