Battle of the Chickens and Rats (Keisō emaki) in Two Volumes

Created:
Movement:
unknown
None
key Notes:
Animal allegory, Edo period satire.
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Dimensions:
medium:
Ink and color on paper
story of the work:

"Battle of the Chickens and Rats (Keisō emaki) in Two Volumes," created by Asai Ryōi in the early Edo period, is a narrative painting that employs a humorous and satirical approach to depict the conflict between chickens and rats, reflecting societal themes of competition and survival. The work is significant for its innovative use of color and composition, as well as its commentary on human behavior, contributing to the broader genre of emaki (painted handscrolls) in Japanese art.

Description of the work:

"Battle of the Chickens and Rats (Keisō emaki) in Two Volumes," attributed to Asai Ryōi, is a narrative painting that employs a dynamic composition to depict an imaginative confrontation between chickens and rats. The work is characterized by its vibrant color palette, intricate detailing, and the use of flowing lines that guide the viewer's eye through the unfolding action, reflecting the artist's mastery of the emakimono format.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

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Battle of the Chickens and Rats (Keisō emaki) in Two Volumes