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Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai)

A Gathering of Demons (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons')

An original woodcut by Kawanabe Kyosai (also spelt, Gyosai), "A Gathering of Demons" was printed and published by Daikoku-Ya Kinnosuke in 1865. As only partial figures appear on the edges I suspect this was a panel for either a diptych or triptych. Yet it contains all the wonderfully metamorphosed creatures, devils and skeletons Kyosai's unique art is famous for. This scene possibly deals with the Haykki Yagyo, a Japanese mythical event which loosely translates to (Night Parade of one hundred Demons). As seen here Kyosai's beings clearly live beyond the realm of reason. He founded the genre of 'Kyoga', which may be translated as 'crazy pictures'. 'Kyosai', his chosen name, means 'Crazy Studio'.

Title:	A Gathering of Demons (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons')
Artist:	Kyosai, Kawanabe, 'Gyosai' (Japan, 1831 - 1889)
Date:	1865
Medium:	Original Japanese Woodcut
Publisher:	Daikoku-Ya Kinnosuke
Note:	Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai): During the 1840's and 1850's the famous warrior and legend woodcuts of Kuniyoshi began to play a new and vital role in the formation of Japanese art. For perhaps the first time, strong emotional and individualistic characteristics were seen. In the following Meiji era (1868 - 1912) it was left to Kuniyoshi's two most important students to carry on and develop these themes, eventually dominating the art of their era. Yoshitoshi, Tsukioka (Japan, 1839 - 1892) became the master of dramatic often violent images. By the time Yoshitoshi entered Kuniyoshi's workshop in 1850, Kawanabe Kyosai -- the most bizarre and eccentric of all Japanese artists -- had already left to foster a second career as a great Kano school painter.
	As early as 1852, Kyosai (Gyosai) became notorious for both his art and his rather dissolute lifestyle, particularly his abiding love for sake. Famous both as a great painter and printmaker, Kyosai's imagery was all his own. Using the figures and themes of Japanese mythology, folklore and scenes of everyday life as his genesis he created some of the most riotous imagery in the history of Japanese art. Some are bizarre, some are humorous, many are both. His art represents a fascinating exploration of the unconscious.
	Kawanabe Kyosai's first woodcut dates from 1860. The majority of Kyosai's woodcuts are in the small koban size of his Manga sets. He produced fewer large oban sized woodcuts, as is the case here in, "A Gathering of Demons".
	Kyosai's art was better known in the west than the work of other Meiji artists. His paintings, drawings and woodcuts were exhibited at the Vienna International Exposition in 1873 and at the Paris Exposition of 1883. Furthermore the British architect and artist, Josiah Conder (1852-1920), became a pupil of Kyosai (also spelt, Gyosai) in the 1880's and in 1911 published his important book, "Paintings and Studies by Kawanabe Kyosai".
	A Gathering of Demons, Yokai (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons'): This original woodcut possibly deals with the Haykki Yagyo, a Japanese legend or folklore which loosely translates to (Night Parade of one hundred Demons). This mythical event is said to occur every year during hot summer nights. Throughout the course of the night, yokai (ghosts and supernatural beings, sometimes spelled 'Youkai'), Oni (Demons, Fiends, Ogres, ghouls, Goblins or Evil Spirits) and many other fearsome creatures, parade through the streets of Japan creating pandemonium in order to terrorize and or slay humans for pleasure. It is recommend you lock your doors cover the windows, stay indoors and make sure you are protected by an anti yokai handwritten scroll. The National Museum of Japanese History as a collection of original Edo period picture scrolls depicting Haykki Yagyo.
	A note on the Yokai & the Oni from Japanese legends: Supernatural apparitions commonly known in Japan as Yokai, sometimes spelled (Youkai), have been around in Japanese legends for centuries. Stories of the exploits of those worshiped as gods, and the misdeeds of the threatening, dark forces behind the noxious and sinister nature of those thought to be demons have been passed down through legends and folklore, eventually making their way into popular culture. Other words that have a similar meaning as Yokai may include, 'ayakashi, 'mononoke', or mamono', and a common English translation for Yokai is 'monster', but in reality, its meaning encompasses a vast array of mythological phenomenon. According to various superstitions and legends, it is believed yokai have an innate connection to the moon, some youkai are recognized as beneficial, and said to have the power to bestow good fortune and health; while others are presumed evil, dangerous, or just untrustworthy, and capable of frightening, intimidating, or even murdering their victims. Although they are very different in nature and appearance, most Yokai have certain characteristics in common, such as their arrogant attitude towards humans, their mischievous, and impish disposition, mystic powers, and the ability to create pandemonium. Today, Yokai are most often described as unexplained, but powerful apparitions with bewitching, or grotesque features. One of the most common powers attributed to the Yokai is the ability to alter their appearance, transforming or metamorphosing into anything or anyone, a clever trick that could lead to disconcerting or frightful experiences for humans. In Japanese folklore beings that posses this power are known as shape shifters, and changelings (obake, and bakemono).
	It is believed many indigenous Japanese animals posses magical powers, hence there are numerous Yokai that descend from the animal kingdom. These animal spirits are also given unique names to represent the morphed creatures. As mentioned earlier, Yokai come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and develop diverse characteristics; the following includes a brief description or the mythical names attributed to a selection of yokai appearing in Japanese legends. The raccoon like dog spirit is called (Tanuki), and is most often defined by its large, sometimes enormous sacks (Kinbukuro or Kintama). The wise old fox spirit, known as (Kitsune) can grow up to nine tails. The badger called (Mujina), is a shy mountain creature that has a preference for tormenting the wicked. Like the Tanuki and the Kitsune, it is an obake, and is known to take human form, however, of particular notoriety is the Mujina that appears as a human without facial features. The latter three creatures bear so many similarities, they are often confused. Slithering snake like creatures include the one known as old snake-bone woman (Jakotsu Babga), or the giant snake and cobra demons (Hebi), which are sometimes depicted with human heads and may appear as a misty ghost-like humanoid. In Japanese lore, most dragons are water deities, In Japanese lore, most dragons are water deities, two wingless serpents come to mind, the mild mannered dragon called (Ryu or Ryuu) and the man eating dragon called (Mizuchi), both are very similar in appearance. Demon felines are also featured prominently, like most cats they lead charmed lives, however, these creatures are very powerful and like the fox and the raccoon, are shape shifters (obake). Three such Yukai include the cat that becomes a yokai, called a changing cat or (Bakeneko), the fierce man eating, double or fork tailed cat called a (Nekomata), and the demon cat that steals corpses (Kasha). The Kappa, also known as Kawataro, Komahiki, Kawako are amphibian river imps that dwell in the watery world of rivers, lakes, springs, swamps and wells. Some believe the Kappa to be a deity created to help humans, while others insist they are man eating monsters. They are described as reptilian in nature, part turtle, part human, some have duck like features, some are hairy, and others look like frogs wearing turtle shells. One distinctive feature all Kappa share is the dent or bowl in their head filled with water which is said to be their source of power. There is a dog spirit called (Inugami), and like the common dog, it remains loyal to its master, but can become malevolent, if it is not properly cared for. The youkai also lay claim to the bird species; one of the most common is the crow or raven called a (Tengu), traditionally portrayed with both humanized and bird-like characteristics. The Tengu with the raptor-like, anthropomorphized features, half man, half crow, or raven is called (Karasu-Tengu), and the lesser known bird-like creatures with extremely long noses and red faces are called (Hanadaka-Tengo). Another creature of note is the giant earth spider, the unearthly monster depicted in the famous tale of Minamoto no Raiko (Tsuchigumo).
	Japanese folklore is also comprised of legendary phenomena that does not belong to the animal kingdom, but is equally feared by the human residents of Japan. Such ghoulish and sinister demons could make your skin crawl at the blink of an eye. The (Nukekubi) is a woman whose heads and souls detach from their bodies, the (Hone-onna), is a female skeleton who lures men into her cavern then sucks the life out of them, (Amanozako) is a hideous goddess with a ferocious temper, the (Nuppeppo), are unrecognizable blobs of mostly flesh, no other description is needed. And then we have the (Tsukumogami), ordinary inanimate household items which come to life when they reach one hundred years of age, and after their transformation, unique names were often given to each object, umbrellas (Karakasa), sake jars (Kameosa), tea kettles (Morinji-no-kama), etc., the list seems endless.
	The Oni are icons of Japanese folklore that belong to the group of Yokai most often represented as (Demons, Fiends, Ogres, Goblins, or manifestations of Evil Spirits). It is believed that the term Oni was originally used to describe most apparitions, demons and or supernatural creatures as there was no clear definition for this phenomenon. And, according to legend, Oni are the human spirits or the souls of those who were so malignant they ended up in Buddhist hell as Oni, the hideous servants of the ruler and master of the netherworld. Today, the term Oni generally refers to a specific category of male demons which are commonly represented as red horned creatures but can be blue, green, yellow, brown, or black. They say it is the red and blue Oni who torment the dead. Some of these unsightly creatures often have a protruding horn, or two on their head, and with one, or more eyes on their face. Oni are considered to be bearers of disease, disasters and can conjure up terrible curses with their magical powers. Most often than not, they are considered to be dim-witted, spiteful, cruel and very fond of vulgar humor. The Oni, like many other Yokai are also Shape Shifters (obake), as such, they have the power to morph at will, placing their victims at risk of endless mischief. Most believe they are wicked, and, or bad omens, however, there are those who believe that the Oni are a windfall, and can bring prosperity, good health or both. In this original woodcut, Kawanabe Kyosai depicts a variety of Yokai, and Oni creating pandemonium, possibly during the Haykki Yagyo (Night Parade of 100 Demons).
Size:	14 1/8 X 9 5/8 oban (Sizes in inches are approximate, height preceding width of plate-mark or image.)
	Framed and Matted with 100% Archival Materials

Condition:	Printed on nineteenth century Japanese mulberry (rice) paper and with full margins as published in 1865. Containing the date and publisher seals in the lower right corner and Kyosai's signature in the lower center margin. One very small hole is evident in the upper right corner else a strongly printed impression and in excellent condition throughout. Altogether "A Gathering of Demons" represents a splendid, original example of the famous art of Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai).
Subject:	Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai), "A Gathering of Demons", Yokai (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons'), original Japanese woodcut, metamorphosed creatures, devils and skeletons, 'Kyoga', crazy pictures, Josiah Conder (1852-1920), exploration of the unconscious, realms beyond reason.
Price:	Sold - The price is no longer available.
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Original woodcut by the Japanese artist, Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai).

A Gathering of Demons, Yokai (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons')

View other original Japanese woodcuts by Kawanabe Kyosai.

Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai' (1831 - 1889)
#	Image	Title and Artist	Medium	Date	Subject	Notes	-
01.-		A Gathering of Demons (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons') by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	1865	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Daikoku-Ya Kinnosuke	Sold
02.-		A Hero Battling a Dragon (Yokai, Japanese Serpents, Mizuchi or Ryu) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Mizuchi, & Ryu (Serpents, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
03.-		Jigoku no Kyujitsu (Holiday in Hell), Legends of Yokai, Oni and other Spirits by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Apparitions, Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
04.-		Jigoku de Hotoke, A Buddha in Hell (Japanese Proverbs & Folklore, Yokai, Oni, & other Supernatural Beings) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
05.-		Kaeru no ko wa kaeru to naru (The Child of a Frog Becomes a Frog), Kaeru no tsura e mizu (Water on a Frog's Skin), Japanese Legends, Proverbs and Folklore by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Kaeru (Frogs and Toads, Lucky amulets and Good Omens)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
06.-		Ljin Jiyu (Foreign Children at Play, Children's Games) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Ljin Jiyu (Foreign Children in Japan)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
07.-		Master Artists at Work, Japanese Legends of Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
08.-		Nagai mono ni wa makarero (Resistance is futile - Japanese Mythology & Proverbs) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, (Apparitions, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
09.-		Oni no inu ma ni sentaku (Doing the Laundry While the Demon is Away - Japanese Folklore & Proverbs) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
10.-		Sado No Kuni Doza Tanuki (The Raccoon-Dog Doza (Danzaburo Danuki) of Sado Island (Japanese Mythology, Yokai & Supernatural Creatures) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Tanuki (The Raccoon-Dog, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
11.-		Setsubun, Mame-maki, Oni wa Soto; Fuku wa Uchi (Bean-Throwing Spring Festival, Get Out Demons; Come in Good Fortune) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni, Setsubun (Festivals, Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
12.-		Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Tengu (Crows, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
13.-		The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Bakeneko (Cats, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
14.-		The Style of Painting of Kano Koi by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	1887	The Style of Painting of Kano Koi depicts the effects of joy and laughter	Published by Iwamoto Shun for the Kyosai Gadan (Kyosai's Account of Painting)
15.-		Watonai, Hariko no Meijin (Watonai, as Master of Paper Mache) & (Daruma Dolls Terrifying their Makers) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokaii (Watonai & Daruma Dolls)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)

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