Frog and Spray of Kerria Japonica c. 1815 - 1820

Chôtei Hisazumi created this woodblock print, Frog and Spray of Kerria Japonica, where we see a seemingly simple scene imbued with layers of meaning. At first glance, we see a frog, a symbol often associated with fertility and transformation, resting in a container. This isn't just any container, but one adorned with circular motifs resembling stylized chrysanthemums and geometric patterns. The chrysanthemum, a symbol of longevity and rejuvenation, whispers of cycles of life and death, reminding us of the ever-turning wheel of existence. Now, consider the frog itself. Across cultures, the frog bridges worlds: water and land, the conscious and unconscious. Like the Greek psyche, the frog undergoes metamorphosis, shedding its old form for the new, and mirroring our own potential for spiritual renewal. The presence of the Kerria Japonica with its vibrant yellow flowers adds another layer; a symbol of elegance and fleeting beauty. Together, these elements create a scene charged with emotional and psychological resonance, inviting us to reflect on the transient nature of life and the promise of rebirth.