Beauty, Ghost and Hero 1882

"Beauty, Ghost and Hero" is a woodblock print created in 1882 by the Japanese artist Yōshū (Hashimoto) Chikanobu. The print depicts a samurai, in a bold and dramatic composition. He wears a red and gold kimono, embellished with elaborate geometric patterns, and his stern expression is emphasized by the bright red face paint. The background features a lush green bamboo grove and pink cherry blossoms, contrasting with the darker tones of the figure. This "ukiyo-e" print, a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th to the 19th century, exemplifies Chikanobu’s skill in depicting dynamic figures and vibrant colors.