Objects Representing the Ceremony of Exorcising Demons, One of the New Year Performances 19th century

This print was made by Kubo Shunman, an artist working in Japan in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It depicts objects relating to the New Year ceremony for exorcising demons. The image itself creates meaning through its juxtaposition of mundane objects with rich cultural references and historical associations. The use of holly leaves is particularly interesting. These suggest the specific rituals surrounding the exorcism of demons, a practice rooted in Japanese folklore and religious beliefs. The print offers a glimpse into the social customs and spiritual practices that were integral to Japanese society at that time. To fully understand this print, we need to delve into the historical context of Edo-period Japan, researching its religious practices, social hierarchies, and artistic conventions. By examining these sources, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural forces that shaped its creation and meaning. The interpretation of art is contingent on social and institutional context.