The Treasure Ship c. 1778

Kitao Shigemasa created this woodblock print titled, *The Treasure Ship*, sometime between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. What immediately strikes the eye is the dynamic arrangement of the figures, densely packed within the ship's hull. The artist uses a vertical format to emphasize the towering presence of the deities, contrasting with the crane which soars in the sky above, creating a sense of depth and perspective. The intricate lines defining the figures contrast with the more simplified rendering of the waves, drawing our focus towards the animated expressions and detailed attire of the deities. Shigemasa employs a muted palette, dominated by earthy tones and subtle gradations, to convey the supernatural nature of the scene. The careful balance between detail and simplification invites us to contemplate the relationship between the tangible and the mystical. Ultimately, it is the dynamic interplay between line, composition, and form that defines the artistic power of this print.