Kano Tan'yū (1602-1674) created a copy of Toba Sojo's "Penis and Fart Competition" (Nankon hohi kurabe), a work from the Heian period that humorously depicts a contest between two figures, emphasizing the playful and irreverent aspects of Japanese art. Tan'yū's rendition, executed in the early Edo period, reflects the continued appreciation for and reinterpretation of classical themes within the context of contemporary artistic practices.
Kano Tan'yū's "Copy of Toba Sojo's 'Penis and Fart Competition' (Nankon hohi kurabe)" presents a dynamic composition characterized by its playful depiction of anthropomorphic figures engaged in a humorous contest, rendered with meticulous attention to detail and vibrant color. The work exemplifies the Edo period's interest in satire and social commentary, utilizing bold lines and expressive forms to convey the lively interaction between the figures.
