Daikoku God and Chinese Performers with Calligraphy c. early 19th century

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, *Daikoku God and Chinese Performers with Calligraphy*, by Katsushika Taito II (1810-1853), features a dynamic composition that juxtaposes three distinct panels. The leftmost panel depicts a series of Chinese performers, while the central panel is dedicated to a calligraphic inscription. The rightmost panel shows Daikoku, the Japanese god of wealth, playing the biwa (a Japanese lute). The work exemplifies the artistry of the Edo period, incorporating elements of Japanese mythology, popular culture, and calligraphy into a visually engaging narrative. This captivating print, housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Japanese woodblock prints.