Fukurokuju Writing with His Head

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

1882

Fukurokuju Writing with His Head by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, 1882

In this playful woodblock print by the master Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, Fukurokuju, the Japanese god of wisdom, shows off his unique talents. Known for his comically elongated cranium, he is bent completely over, using a calligraphy brush tied to his forehead to paint characters on a scroll. Surrounding him is a gaggle of curious onlookers—likely his fellow Seven Lucky Gods—who watch with a mix of awe and amusement. It's a whimsical take on divine skill, highlighting the artist's flair for the slightly eccentric side of mythology.

Technique
Woodblock print
Material
Paper and ink
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