Gama Sennin late 18th - early 19th century

This ink and color on silk scroll portrays Gama Sennin, a legendary figure often depicted with a toad, rendered by Kuroda Ryōzan. The toad is no mere amphibian. It is a potent symbol of longevity and transformation. In Chinese alchemy, it is believed that toads could transform base metals into gold. Gama Sennin, through his association with the toad, embodies the alchemical quest for immortality. Consider the ancient Greek serpent, the Ouroboros, devouring its own tail, symbolizing cyclical renewal. The toad, similarly, suggests a regenerative force, a continuous cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Note that there are several similar images from the Ming dynasty. The image evokes a deep psychological resonance, tapping into our collective yearning for transcendence and the eternal return. The enduring appeal of Gama Sennin lies in his promise of overcoming mortality, a desire as old as humanity itself. This symbol of transformation has resurfaced through different cultures and periods.