Spirit of the Earth Spider, 1881

by Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)

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Spirit of the Earth Spider, 1881 by Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)

Original Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882) Japanese Woodblock Print
Spirit of the Earth Spider, 1881

Comments - Handsome kabuki scene from the legendary tale of the ground spider. The great warrior Minamoto no Yorimitsu, known as Raiko, fell ill with a fever and dreamed of an earth spider preparing to cast a web over him. He struck at it with his sword and immediately recovered from his fever, chasing the ground spider to its lair and killing it with the aid of his retainers. Here the spirit of the ground spider stands in the center, gripping a red and white striped pole in one hand as he stares solemnly at Raiko, who reaches for his sword. His long flowing hair falls over his shoulders, and a delicate spider web radiates from the foliage behind him. The nobleman Yasumasa watches intently from the right, gripping his fan. From left, the actors are Ichikawa Danjuro, Onoe Kikugoro, Bando Kakitsu, and Ichikawa Sadanji. A colorful triptych with large, well-detailed figures set against a softly shaded night sky.

Artist - Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 27 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Slight creasing and soiling. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.

Spirit of the Earth Spider, 1881 by Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)
Spirit of the Earth Spider, 1881 by Chikashige (active circa 1869 - 1882)

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