Triptych: Ibaraki no keshin c. 1843 - 1847

Curator: Utagawa Kuniyoshi's Triptych: Ibaraki no keshin—a vibrant work made with woodblock print—depicts a scene charged with dramatic tension. What strikes you first? Editor: The sheer weirdness! The giant toad eyes peering down, the swooping figure in the corner… It's like a fever dream rendered in exquisite detail. Curator: Indeed. Kuniyoshi, active during the late Edo period, often used folklore to critique social issues. This triptych likely references the tale of Ibaraki-dōji, an ōni or demon. The samurai Watanabe no Tsuna cuts off the demon's arm. Editor: So, is that Watanabe down there, looking all discombobulated? He looks like he is about to be swallowed by the terrain. Curator: Potentially, yes. By examining the historical context of these tales, we can understand the social fears that underpinned the imagery, how narratives of monstrosity are often tied to broader anxieties. Editor: I get it. The monster isn't just a monster, it's a symbol. But still, those eyes! It is such a cool way to express terror and social anxiety at the same time. Curator: Precisely. Kuniyoshi’s genius lies in this intersection, using visual spectacle to make incisive commentary. Editor: Definitely gives you something to think about beyond the stunning visuals. A little unsettling, but in a good way!