Spiny Lobster c. late 18th century

Ito Jakuchu rendered this Spiny Lobster in ink on paper during the Edo period, a striking image that transcends mere representation. The lobster, a creature of the sea, emerges here as a symbol laden with meaning, particularly longevity. Consider the motif of the crustacean across cultures. From ancient Minoan frescoes to Roman mosaics, the lobster appears, often associated with the bounty of the sea and, by extension, prosperity. Yet, in Jakuchu’s rendering, the creature is elevated. The bold brushstrokes capture its essence, not just its form. Its imposing presence speaks to a deeper psychological resonance. Like the serpent, shedding its skin to be reborn, the lobster’s hard shell becomes a symbol of resilience, of survival, that echoes through time. Its image resurfaces in unexpected places, from heraldic crests to surrealist paintings. The cycle continues, the symbol adapting, morphing, yet retaining its primal power.