Taigong Wang [center of a triptych of Taigong Wang c. 1760 - 1780

Soga Shōhaku painted this image of Taigong Wang in 18th century Japan. The image is the central panel of a triptych, made with ink on paper. Shōhaku, known for his eccentric personality and his individualistic style, here depicts Taigong Wang, a legendary figure from Chinese history, as an old fisherman. Wang spent his days fishing until he was discovered by King Wen, who recognized his wisdom and appointed him as a chief advisor. The traditional narrative casts Wang as a wise, masculine advisor. However, here, Shōhaku seems to complicate this heroic image. The figure appears weathered, burdened, his eyes gazing downward, perhaps suggesting a more nuanced, human side to this legendary figure. Consider the weight of expectations and the negotiation of identity within historical narratives. Shōhaku invites us to think about the relationship between age, wisdom, and masculinity, and to find humanity in legendary figures.