The Legend of the Stone Pillow, 1859

by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Current Status

The Legend of the Stone Pillow, 1859 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Original Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) Japanese Woodblock Print
The Legend of the Stone Pillow, 1859

Comments - Intriguing kabuki scene from the legend of the stone pillow at the Old Hag's Pond near Asakusa on Asaji Moor. The old crone lured male travelers to stay overnight with the promise of her young daughter to accompany them to bed. Once the man fell asleep with his head on a stone pillow, the hag would drop another stone on top of him, crushing him to death, and then would steal his clothing. After 999 men had been killed in this manner, the Goddess Kannon visited in the guise of a young man, and the daughter fell madly in love with him. She allowed herself to be killed on the stone pillow to save his life. Here, the hag's daughter looks up with a smile while fulling cloth, beating it with a wooden mallet, a process that entangles the fibers to create a stronger fabric. She seems to be unconcerned with the evil behavior of her chunks mother. The floor is covered with straw matting, but the plaster walls are cracked with missing plaster and grasses growing up through the holes. Nice detail in the setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 9 5/8" + margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few small holes, repaired. Slight soiling. Please see photos for details.

The Legend of the Stone Pillow, 1859 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
The Legend of the Stone Pillow, 1859 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

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