Chimera
c. 1790
Signed 'Shunrō,' this energetic print reveals a young Hokusai long before he painted the famous Great Wave. It captures a dramatic moment from Kabuki theater where two samurai heroes are battling the Nue, a mythical Japanese chimera known for its monkey face, tiger body, and snake tail. The warriors are shown in dynamic poses with swords drawn, standing triumphantly over the defeated, monkey-like beast at the bottom right. It’s a fantastic example of *yakusha-e* (actor prints), showcasing Hokusai's early talent for capturing movement and folklore.
- Technique
- Woodblock print
- Material
- Paper