Susano-o no Mikoto Killing the Eight-headed Dragon

Susano-o no Mikoto Killing the Eight-headed Dragon by Torii Kiyomasu II

The artwork "Susano-o no Mikoto Killing the Eight-headed Dragon," created in 1748 by Torii Kiyomasu II, is a color woodblock print executed in the hosoban format. This piece exemplifies the ukiyo-e tradition, a genre that flourished during the Edo period, known for its vibrant depictions of kabuki actors, historical scenes, and mythological subjects. The print captures the dramatic moment from Japanese mythology where the Shinto deity Susano-o vanquishes the fearsome eight-headed dragon, Yamata no Orochi, showcasing the artist's skill in dynamic composition and narrative storytelling.

Torii Kiyomasu II was a prominent figure in the Torii school, which was instrumental in the development of kabuki theater prints. His works are characterized by their bold lines and expressive figures, contributing significantly to the visual culture of Edo-period Japan. The Torii school played a crucial role in popularizing the kabuki theater through its vivid and accessible imagery, thus influencing both the art and entertainment landscapes of the time.

Susano-o no Mikoto Killing the Eight-headed Dragon by Torii Kiyomasu II

This 1748 color woodblock print, created in the hosoban format, depicts the Shinto deity Susano-o no Mikoto in the act of slaying the mythical eight-headed dragon, Yamata no Orochi, showcasing the dynamic and dramatic style characteristic of the Torii school. The artwork exemplifies the Edo period's ukiyo-e tradition, emphasizing bold lines and vibrant colors to convey movement and narrative intensity.