Long Arms [right of a pair of Long Legs and Long Arms] c. 1870s - 1880s

This hanging scroll by the prolific Japanese artist Kawanabe Kyōsai depicts a pair of extremely long arms reaching upwards. The drawing, rendered in ink on paper, is characteristic of Kyōsai’s style, which was often humorous and fantastical. The elongated limbs, a recurring motif in his work, are playfully distorted, creating an amusing and slightly unsettling visual effect. “Long Arms” demonstrates Kyōsai’s mastery of line and his ability to evoke humor through simple yet effective compositions. The artwork is a testament to his artistic talent and his contribution to the development of Japanese art.