Susano-o no Mikoto Killing the Eight-headed Dragon 1748

This woodblock print, "Susano-o no Mikoto Killing the Eight-headed Dragon," was created in 1748 by Torii Kiyomasu II, a prominent artist in the Edo period. It depicts the Shinto deity Susano-o, known for his strength, slaying an eight-headed dragon, a legendary beast often associated with chaos. This dramatic scene is rendered in the characteristic style of the ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that thrived in the Edo period. The vibrant colors, dynamic composition, and intricate details capture the mythical essence of the narrative. This print provides a glimpse into Japanese folklore and the artistic traditions of the time.