Fox by the Moonlit Water, c. 1928-1930
Ohara Shōson; Publisher: Kawaguchi Jirōexpand_more
Woodblock print; ink and color on paperexpand_more
Gift of Paul Schweitzerexpand_more P.77.28.64
Not on Viewexpand_more
The Japanese believe that foxes possess supernatural powers, including the ability to change themselves into human form to beguile unsuspecting victims. They could also create small, magical fires that would lure travelers off the road where they could attack. While this print is typical of Sho_son's naturalistic style, the dim light of the crescent moon and windswept water reeds give the print an eerie ambience. Since the marshy plains of Musashino, near Tokyo, have been long associated with moonlit views and clandestine nocturnal meetings, it is likely that this print is meant to suggest that geographic area.
Details
- Title
- Fox by the Moonlit Water
- Artist Life
- 1877 - 1945
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.77.28.64
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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