Okame Laughing at the Shadow of a Mushroom 1882

"Okame Laughing at the Shadow of a Mushroom" (1882) is a woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892). It depicts a comical scene of an Okame, a stock character in Japanese theater known for her exaggerated features and playful demeanor, laughing hysterically at the shadow of a mushroom cast on a paper screen. Yoshitoshi, a master of ukiyo-e, captures the Okame's joy and exuberance through vibrant colors and dynamic lines. This print exemplifies Yoshitoshi's ability to blend traditional themes with contemporary humor, creating a work that is both charming and insightful.