Kanjirō Repels His Would-be Assassins 1875

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi created this woodblock print, depicting Kanjirō's fierce defense, highlighting the brutal realities of conflict. Blood, the dominant motif, covers the figures, illustrating violence, death, and the loss of life. The imagery of blood, as seen here, is a powerful symbol that transcends cultures and epochs. This visceral representation echoes in the works of antiquity. Consider the sacrificial blood in ancient rituals, immortalized in frescoes and sculptures, or its presence in renaissance paintings depicting martyrdom. Blood is not merely a biological element; it embodies sacrifice, vitality, and a raw, primal connection to life and death. The recurring symbolism suggests a deep, collective memory tied to human experiences of violence and mortality. This echoes a perpetual cycle, and reminds us of humanity's enduring confrontation with its own mortality and destructive impulses. This is a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level.