Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai)

Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs)

Kawanabe Kyosai's original woodcut, Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs) is printed on nineteenth century Japanese mulberry paper and with full margins as published by Okura Magobei in the Kyosai Hyakuzu, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), between 1881 - 1886. The scene depicts a group of Tengu (Yokai), often appearing in Japanese mythology and proverbs. This image is constructed by means of two horizontal subjects that refer to the Japanese proverbs or expressions (Kotowaza), "Walls have ears" and "When farmers sow seeds crows grub them". The first scene depicts two peasants laughing at an enormous ear on the wall to the right. The Japanese expression, that may refer to it reads; "Walls have ears", the full saying goes as follows; "Walls have ears, the paper doors have eyes" (kabe ni mimi ari shouji no me ari). I believe it is a figure of speech that means "you must be mindful of what you say or do, for people may hear you or see you". The lower image depicts a chaotic scene three farmers carelessly chasing Tengu. The Tengu depicted in this Kyosai woodcut are similar to the ones with raptor-like features and humanoid bodies with bird's heads, beaks and feathers called (Kotengu), which means, 'Lesser Tengu', often referred to as the 'Crow or Raven Tengu' (Karasu-Tengu). Legend has it that these particular Tengu are born from ignorant, proud and ill-mannered souls. The second proverb that is likely associated with this image reads; "When farmers sow seeds, crows grub them." and judging by Kyosai's image, it probably means "You reap what you sow". This is surely a striking, original example of the mythological art created by the Japanese artist, Kawanabe Kyosai (also spelt, Gyosai).

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Title:	Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs)
Artist:	Kyosai, Kawanabe, 'Gyosai' (Japan, 1831 - 1889)
Date:	1862-1866 (Magobei edition)
Publisher:	Okura Magobei (Okuraya)
Medium:	Original Japanese Woodcut
Source:	One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai (Kyosai Hyakuzu)
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. Kyosai's 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".
	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, most of Kyosai's woodcuts were published in smaller sized albums. Albums of note include, such works as the Kyosai Gadan (Kyosai's Treatise on Painting), woodcuts in the traditional Japanese and Chinese paintings styles, four volumes published in two parts by Iwamoto Shun (1887), Ehon Taka Kagami (Picture Book Mirror of Hawks), published by Nakamura Sasuke in five volumes in yellow wrappers (1875), Kyosai Gafu Shohen (Kyosai's Picture-Album) published in one volume by Kinkado (1880), Kyosai Donga Shohen (Sketches by Kyosai) published by Inada Genkichi (1881), Kyosai Manga Shohen (Kyosai's Rambling Drawings), published by Makino Kichibei (1881), and one of his most popular series entitled, Kyosai Hyakuzu, also spelt, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), (1862-1866), which dealt with Japanese folklore, legends and proverbs ('kotowaza). Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs), is a fine original example of his mythological imagery.
	One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai (Kyosai Hyakuzu): The original woodcuts from the set of "100 Pictures by Kyosai" were first published by Wakasaya Yoichi (aka Jakurindo Yoichi) between (1862-1866), and issued as single-sheet prints in packages of ten. The complete series was later re-published in album form by Okura Magobei (Okuraya), (1881 - 1886). As Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai, was originally bound in an album, it most likely hails from the Okura Magobei edition. Influenced somewhat by the Shijo style, it is in these small and wonderful works that Kyosai's unique talents come to the fore. Most of the images in the Kyosai Hyaku-zu draw upon Japanese mythology, folklore and proverbs (in Japanese 'proverb' means 'kotowaza'). Many of the woodcuts from this series depict unexplained manifestations and beastly creatures while others seem to represent the pastimes and foibles of villagers and peasants. Sometimes, Kyosai combines all of these elements into a single woodcut. In total, the Kyosai Hyakuzu contained over two hundred original woodcuts, all emphasizing strange, sinister or humorous aspects of life. Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs) is a fine original example of the Mythological art created by the Japanese artist, Kawanabe Kyosai.
	Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs): This original Kawanabe Kyosai woodcut depicts a group of Tengu spirits, creatures often found in Japanese mythology and proverbs, known to be mischievous, supernatural crow like beings with humanoid features. This image is constructed by means of two horizontal subjects that refer to the Japanese proverbs or expressions (Kotowaza), "Walls have ears" and "When farmers sow seeds crows grub them". The first scene depicts two peasants laughing at an enormous ear on the wall to the right. The Japanese expression, that may refer to it reads; "Walls have ears", the full saying goes as follows; "Walls have ears, the paper doors have eyes" (kabe ni mimi ari shouji no me ari). I believe it is a figure of speech meaning "you must be mindful of what you say or do, for people may hear you or see you". The lower scene depicts three farmers carelessly chasing Tengu and they are all causing havoc, so the second proverb that is likely associated with this image reads; "When farmers sow seeds, crows grub them." and judging by Kyosai's image, it probably means "You reap what you sow". The Los Angeles County Museum of art (LACMA), contains an impression similar to this original woodcut in their collection collections, Accession Number, M.84.31.527.
	Tengu appear in various bird-like forms and sizes and are said to be mischievous and proud crow-like creatures who are born from the spirits of the dead. These beings are said to live in the forests and mountains, and are traditionally depicted with human and bird like features, sometimes (half man, half bird). They are known for their mastery of martial arts, and are great tricksters, thieves, kidnappers, although they love deceiving people, they are not in the least amused when the trick is on them. There are various magical objects associated with the Tengu, such as fans that can elongate or shorten noses; a magical cloak of invisibility, and as they are fond of alcoholic beverages, they often carry a gourd that is full of sake. Items also linked to them include magical staffs, mallets and various other charmed items that are often depicted in folk tales. The Tengu (Raven / Crow), with raptor-like features and humanoid bodies with bird's heads, beaks and feathers are said to be born from ignorant, proud and ill-mannered souls. These are called (Kotengu), meaning, 'Lesser Tengu' and are often referred to as the 'Crow or Raven Tengu' (Karasu-Tengu). These creatures are the more common Tengu; the very foolish, most mischievous, and also believed to be the most untrustworthy and dangerous spirits of their kind. The winged mountain goblins with extremely long noses and red faces are said to be of a higher class of spirit, born from wise, literate and very proud men. These are known as (Daitengu), meaning 'Great Tengu' and are called 'Long Nosed Tengu' (Hanadaka-Tengo). They are more pretentious, reclusive and are often considered protectors. Like the 'Crow Tengu', the 'Long Nosed Tengu also enjoy playing tricks on people, however, their tricks are most often performed with the objective of providing a moral lesson. In this original woodcut, Kyosai's depicts the Tengu with human bodies and bird heads, which makes them 'Crow or Raven Tengu' (Karasu-Tengu).
	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, 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). This original Kyosai woodcut entitled, Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai is a striking example of animal spirits portrayed in 19th century Japanese folklore.
	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. Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai, is a fine example of Japanese folklore portrayed in art.
Size:	6 3/4 X 4 1/2 Koban (Sizes in inches are approximate, height preceding width of plate-mark or image.)
	Matted with 100% Archival Materials
Buy Now	Price: $285.00 US
Condition:	Printed on nineteenth century Japanese mulberry (rice) paper and with full margins as published by Okura Magobei in the Kyosai Hyakuzu, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), between 1881 - 1886. A finely printed impression and in excellent condition throughout. Altogether Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs) is a splendid example of the famous art of Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai).
Subject:	Kawanabe Kyosai, Gyosai, Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs), Okura Magobei in the Kyosai Hyakuzu, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), original woodcut, Yokai, Oni, Japanese folklore & legends.
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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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