Thunder gods peeping at a beauty through a telescope c. 1782

"Thunder Gods Peeping at a Beauty Through a Telescope" is a woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Torii Kiyonaga in c. 1782. This work showcases Kiyonaga's mastery of depicting the elegance and beauty of women in the Edo period. The print features a stylishly dressed woman, likely a courtesan, holding a fan and glancing upwards. Above her, in the clouds, two thunder gods humorously peer through a telescope, their expressions suggesting a playful and mischievous observation. This piece, housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, exemplifies Kiyonaga's captivating blend of humor and artistry, capturing the essence of everyday life and mythical elements in a visually engaging manner.