Urashima Tarō Returning on the Turtle
1882
Legendary fisherman Urashima Taro catches a ride home on a giant, mythical turtle that looks more like a dragon with a magnificent, flowing tail. Clutching a mysterious black box—the famous *tamatebako* given to him by the Dragon Princess—he looks a bit bewildered as he speeds through the air. This is a pivotal moment from Japanese folklore: he's returning from the underwater Dragon Palace, completely unaware that while he was partying for a few days, centuries have passed in the human world. Spoiler alert: he really shouldn't open that box!
- Technique
- Woodblock print
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