Man Driven Mad by Priests Hired to Pray for His Recovery 1879

"Man Driven Mad by Priests Hired to Pray for His Recovery" is a woodblock print by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi from 1879. The print depicts a scene of chaos and madness as priests, hired to pray for a man's recovery, instead drive him to insanity. Yoshitoshi, a prominent artist of the late Edo period, is known for his dramatic and often gruesome depictions of Japanese history and folklore. This work showcases his signature use of bold lines and vibrant colors to create a powerful and unsettling image, exemplifying the themes of religious fanaticism and the fragility of the human psyche. This print is a testament to Yoshitoshi's skill in portraying human emotion and societal critique within the framework of traditional Japanese art.