Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai)

The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko)

An original woodcut by Kawanabe Kyosai (also spelt, Gyosai), The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko), was published in the Kyosai Hyakuzu, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), by Okura Magobei between 1881 - 1886. Most of the images in the Kyosai Hyakuzu draw upon Japanese mythology and folklore, as does this very interesting depiction of villagers and warriors restraining the spectral cat. This is a wonderfully conceived composition, particularly in the overall sense of movement and motion. Kito Tenno is the Japanese title listed for this Kyosai woodcut. The depiction of the creature is most likely a Bakeneko (a mysterious, monster or changing cat), also known as changelings, transformers or shape shifters. Legend has it that the Bakeneko is a magical cat which can haunt homes, create curses and bring great misfortune to its owners and at times can bring good luck. They can speak Japanese while in the human shape as well as conversing with humans while in their familiar cat form and they also enjoy wearing human clothes whenever possible. The Spectral Cat (Yokai, Bakeneko) a beautiful example of Japanese folklore and the art of Kawanabe Kyosai.

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Title:	The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko)
Artist:	Kyosai, Kawanabe, 'Gyosai' (Japan, 1831 - 1889)
Date:	1862-1866 (Magobei edition)
Publisher:	Okura Magobei (Okuraya)
Medium:	Original Japanese Woodcut
Signature:	Signed Oju Seisei Kyosai
Source:	One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai (Kyosai Hyakuzu)
Note:	Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai): During the 1840's and 1850's the famous warrior and legend woodcuts of Kuniyoshi began to play a new and vital role in the formation of Japanese art. For perhaps the first time, strong emotional and individualistic characteristics were seen. In the following Meiji era (1868 - 1912) it was left to Kuniyoshi's two most important students to carry on and develop these themes, eventually dominating the art of their era. Yoshitoshi, Tsukioka (Japan, 1839 - 1892) became the master of dramatic often violent images. By the time Yoshitoshi entered Kuniyoshi's workshop in 1850, Kawanabe Kyosai -- the most bizarre and eccentric of all Japanese artists -- had already left to foster a second career as a great Kano school painter. Kyosai's paintings, drawings and woodcuts were exhibited at the Vienna International Exposition in 1873 and at the Paris Exposition of 1883. Furthermore the British architect and artist, Josiah Conder (1852-1920), became a pupil of Kyosai (also spelt, Gyosai) in the 1880's and in 1911 published his important book, "Paintings and Studies by Kawanabe Kyosai".
	As early as 1852, Kyosai (Gyosai) became notorious for both his art and his rather dissolute lifestyle, particularly his abiding love for sake. Famous both as a great painter and printmaker, most of Kyosai's woodcuts were published in smaller sized albums. Albums of note include, such works as the Kyosai Gadan (Kyosai's Treatise on Painting), woodcuts in the traditional Japanese and Chinese paintings styles, four volumes published in two parts by Iwamoto Shun (1887), Ehon Taka Kagami (Picture Book Mirror of Hawks), published by Nakamura Sasuke in five volumes in yellow wrappers (1875), Kyosai Gafu Shohen (Kyosai's Picture-Album) published in one volume by Kinkado (1880), Kyosai Donga Shohen (Sketches by Kyosai) published by Inada Genkichi (1881), Kyosai Manga Shohen (Kyosai's Rambling Drawings), published by Makino Kichibei (1881), and one of his most popular series entitled, Kyosai Hyakuzu, also spelt, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), (1862-1866), which dealt with Japanese folklore, legends and proverbs ('kotowaza). The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko) is a fine original example of his mythological imagery.
	One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai (Kyosai Hyakuzu): The original woodcuts from the set of "100 Pictures by Kyosai" were first published by Wakasaya Yoichi (aka Jakurindo Yoichi) between (1862-1866), and issued as single-sheet prints in packages of ten. The complete series was later re-published in album form by Okura Magobei (Okuraya), (1881 - 1886). As The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko), was originally bound in an album, it most likely hails from the Okura Magobei edition. Influenced somewhat by the Shijo style, it is in these small and wonderful works that Kyosai's unique talents come to the fore. Most of the images in the Kyosai Hyaku-zu draw upon Japanese mythology, folklore and proverbs (in Japanese 'proverb' means 'kotowaza'). Many of the woodcuts from this series depict unexplained manifestations and beastly creatures while others seem to represent the pastimes and foibles of villagers and peasants. Sometimes, Kyosai combines all of these elements into a single woodcut. In total, the Kyosai Hyakuzu contained over two hundred original woodcuts, all emphasizing strange, sinister or humorous aspects of life. The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko) is a fine original example of the Mythological art of Kawanabe Kyosai.
	The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko): Kito Tenno is the Japanese title listed for this original Kyosai woodcut. It is a depiction of villagers and warriors restraining a spectral cat, which is most likely a Bakeneko (mysterious, monster or changing cat). It is believed that under certain circumstances, and with age, ordinary cats can become 'Bakeneko', 'Nekomata' or 'Kasha'. These creatures belongs to sub-group of Yokai called, 'Henge', 'Changelings', or 'Shape Shifters', and like the 'Kitsune' and the 'Tanuki', they can assume human form and enjoy dressing up in human clothes whenever possible. The Bakeneko has often been portrayed by ukiyo-e artists of the edo period and in kabuki plays as a giant cat, ordinary cats wearing kimonos and cats disguised as beautiful women. There are countless stories surrounding these creatures and many are associated with women of ill repute. Legend has it that the Bakeneko is a magical cat which can haunt homes, invoke curses and bring great misfortune to its owners, or can do just the opposite, and bring great fortune, but should still be avoided. Bakeneko are able to speak Japanese while in the human shape as well as conversing with humans while in their familiar cat form. Only the oldest and largest cats with the longest tails can become the feared, man eating, double or fork tailed cat. 'Nekomata'. The 'Kasha' is believed to be a corps robber, but not to worry, the Kasha only steals the dead who in life have committed evil deeds of cruelty, wickedness and or debauchery, but thankfully, there are special tricks to protect your corpse from its claws. Kuniyoshi seems to have been exceptionally fond of cats as he created many wonderful woodcuts with depictions of cats, even the paulownia flower seal Kuniyoshi uses below his signature is similar to that of a paw print. In Making Rare Scrolls, Kuniyoshi depicts himself, accompanied by one of his beloved cats. This Kyosai woodcut is also a beautiful example of cats in Japanese art.
	A note on the Yokai & the Oni from Japanese legends: Supernatural apparitions commonly known in Japan as Yokai, sometimes spelled (Youkai), have been around in Japanese legends for centuries. Stories of the exploits of those worshiped as gods, and the misdeeds of the threatening, dark forces behind the noxious and sinister nature of those thought to be demons have been passed down through legends and folklore, eventually making their way into popular culture. Other words that have a similar meaning as Yokai may include, 'ayakashi, 'mononoke', or mamono', and a common English translation for Yokai is 'monster', but in reality, its meaning encompasses a vast array of mythological phenomenon. According to various superstitions and legends, it is believed yokai have an innate connection to the moon, some youkai are recognized as beneficial, and said to have the power to bestow good fortune and health; while others are presumed evil, dangerous, or just untrustworthy, and capable of frightening, intimidating, or even murdering their victims. Although they are very different in nature and appearance, most Yokai have certain characteristics in common, such as their arrogant attitude towards humans, their mischievous, and impish disposition, mystic powers, and the ability to create pandemonium. Today, Yokai are most often described as unexplained, but powerful apparitions with bewitching, or grotesque features. One of the most common powers attributed to the Yokai is the ability to alter their appearance, transforming or metamorphosing into anything or anyone, a clever trick that could lead to disconcerting or frightful experiences for humans. In Japanese folklore beings that posses this power are known as shape shifters, and changelings (obake, and bakemono).
	It is believed many indigenous Japanese animals posses magical powers, hence there are numerous Yokai that descend from the animal kingdom. These animal spirits are also given unique names to represent the morphed creatures. As mentioned earlier, Yokai come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and develop diverse characteristics; the following includes a brief description or the mythical names attributed to a selection of yokai appearing in Japanese legends. The raccoon like dog spirit is called (Tanuki), and is most often defined by its large, sometimes enormous sacks (Kinbukuro or Kintama). The wise old fox spirit, known as (Kitsune) can grow up to nine tails. The badger called (Mujina), is a shy mountain creature that has a preference for tormenting the wicked. Like the Tanuki and the Kitsune, it is an obake, and is known to take human form, however, of particular notoriety is the Mujina that appears as a human without facial features. The latter three creatures bear so many similarities, they are often confused. Slithering snake like creatures include the one known as old snake-bone woman (Jakotsu Babga), or the giant snake and cobra demons (Hebi), which are sometimes depicted with human heads and may appear as a misty ghost-like humanoid. In Japanese lore, most dragons are water deities, two wingless serpents come to mind, the mild mannered dragon called (Ryu or Ryuu) and the man eating dragon called (Mizuchi), both are very similar in appearance. Demon felines are also featured prominently, like most cats they lead charmed lives, however, these creatures are very powerful and like the fox and the raccoon, are shape shifters (obake). Three such Yukai include the cat that becomes a yokai, called a changing cat or (Bakeneko), the fierce man eating, double or fork tailed cat called a (Nekomata), and the demon cat that steals corpses (Kasha). The Kappa, also known as Kawataro, Komahiki, Kawako are amphibian river imps that dwell in the watery world of rivers, lakes, springs, swamps and wells. Some believe the Kappa to be a deity created to help humans, while others insist they are man eating monsters. They are described as reptilian in nature, part turtle, part human, some have duck like features, some are hairy, and others look like frogs wearing turtle shells. One distinctive feature all Kappa share is the dent or bowl in their head filled with water which is said to be their source of power. There is a dog spirit called (Inugami), and like the common dog, it remains loyal to its master, but can become malevolent, if it is not properly cared for. The youkai also lay claim to the bird species; one of the most common is the crow or raven called a (Tengu), traditionally portrayed with both humanized and bird-like characteristics. The Tengu with the raptor-like, anthropomorphized features, half man, half crow, or raven is called (Karasu-Tengu), and the lesser known bird-like creatures with extremely long noses and red faces are called (Hanadaka-Tengo). Another creature of note is the giant earth spider, the unearthly monster depicted in the famous tale of Minamoto no Raiko (Tsuchigumo). This original woodcut, Kawanabe Kyosai depicts villagers and warriors restraining a spectral cat. It is a striking example of animal spirits depicted in 19th century Japanese mythology.
	Japanese folklore is also comprised of legendary phenomena that does not belong to the animal kingdom, but is equally feared by the human residents of Japan. Such ghoulish and sinister demons could make your skin crawl at the blink of an eye. The (Nukekubi) is a woman whose heads and souls detach from their bodies, the (Hone-onna), is a female skeleton who lures men into her cavern then sucks the life out of them, (Amanozako) is a hideous goddess with a ferocious temper, the (Nuppeppo), are unrecognizable blobs of mostly flesh, no other description is needed. And then we have the (Tsukumogami), ordinary inanimate household items which come to life when they reach one hundred years of age, and after their transformation, unique names were often given to each object, umbrellas (Karakasa), sake jars (Kameosa), tea kettles (Morinji-no-kama), etc., the list seems endless.
	The Oni are icons of Japanese folklore that belong to the group of Yokai most often represented as (Demons, Fiends, Ogres, Goblins, or manifestations of Evil Spirits). It is believed that the term Oni was originally used to describe most apparitions, demons and or supernatural creatures as there was no clear definition for this phenomenon. And, according to legend, Oni are the human spirits or the souls of those who were so malignant they ended up in Buddhist hell as Oni, the hideous servants of the ruler and master of the netherworld. Today, the term Oni generally refers to a specific category of male demons which are commonly represented as red horned creatures but can be blue, green, yellow, brown, or black. They say it is the red and blue Oni who torment the dead. Some of these unsightly creatures often have a protruding horn, or two on their head, and with one, or more eyes on their face. Oni are considered to be bearers of disease, disasters and can conjure up terrible curses with their magical powers. Most often than not, they are considered to be dim-witted, spiteful, cruel and very fond of vulgar humor. The Oni, like many other Yokai are also Shape Shifters (obake), as such, they have the power to morph at will, placing their victims at risk of endless mischief. Most believe they are wicked, and, or bad omens, however, there are those who believe that the Oni are a windfall, and can bring prosperity, good health or both. The Spectral Cat is a striking example of the Mythological art of Kawanabe Kyosai (Gyosai).
Size:	6 3/4 X 4 1/2 Koban (Sizes in inches are approximate, height preceding width of plate-mark or image.)
	Framed and Matted with 100% Archival Materials
Condition:	This original Japanese woodcut is printed on 19th century Japanese mulberry (rice) paper and with full margins as published by Okura Magobei in the Kyosai Hyakuzu, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), between 1881 - 1886. The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko) is a finely printed impression and in excellent condition throughout.
Subject:	Kawanabe Kyosai, Gyosai, The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko), Okura Magobei in the Kyosai Hyakuzu, 'Kyosai Hyaku-zu' (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai), original woodcut, Yokai and Oni, Japanese legends, and proverbs.
Price:	Sold - The price is no longer available.
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Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai' (1831 - 1889)
#	Image	Title and Artist	Medium	Date	Subject	Notes	-
01.-		A Gathering of Demons (Haykki Yagyo, 'Night Parade of 100 Demons') by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	1865	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Daikoku-Ya Kinnosuke	Sold
02.-		A Hero Battling a Dragon (Yokai, Japanese Serpents, Mizuchi or Ryu) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Mizuchi, & Ryu (Serpents, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
03.-		Jigoku no Kyujitsu (Holiday in Hell), Legends of Yokai, Oni and other Spirits by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Apparitions, Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
04.-		Jigoku de Hotoke, A Buddha in Hell (Japanese Proverbs & Folklore, Yokai, Oni, & other Supernatural Beings) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
05.-		Kaeru no ko wa kaeru to naru (The Child of a Frog Becomes a Frog), Kaeru no tsura e mizu (Water on a Frog's Skin), Japanese Legends, Proverbs and Folklore by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Kaeru (Frogs and Toads, Lucky amulets and Good Omens)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
06.-		Ljin Jiyu (Foreign Children at Play, Children's Games) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Ljin Jiyu (Foreign Children in Japan)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
07.-		Master Artists at Work, Japanese Legends of Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
08.-		Nagai mono ni wa makarero (Resistance is futile - Japanese Mythology & Proverbs) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, (Apparitions, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
09.-		Oni no inu ma ni sentaku (Doing the Laundry While the Demon is Away - Japanese Folklore & Proverbs) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni (Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
10.-		Sado No Kuni Doza Tanuki (The Raccoon-Dog Doza (Danzaburo Danuki) of Sado Island (Japanese Mythology, Yokai & Supernatural Creatures) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Tanuki (The Raccoon-Dog, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
11.-		Setsubun, Mame-maki, Oni wa Soto; Fuku wa Uchi (Bean-Throwing Spring Festival, Get Out Demons; Come in Good Fortune) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Oni, Setsubun (Festivals, Demons Ogres & Goblins)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
12.-		Tengu, Mischievous & Supernatural Crow like, Humanoid Yokai (Japanese Mythology, & Proverbs) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Tengu (Crows, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)
13.-		The Spectral Cat (Japanese Folklore, Yokai, Bakeneko) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokai, Bakeneko (Cats, Animal Spirits & Demons)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)	Sold
14.-		The Style of Painting of Kano Koi by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	1887	The Style of Painting of Kano Koi depicts the effects of joy and laughter	Published by Iwamoto Shun for the Kyosai Gadan (Kyosai's Account of Painting)
15.-		Watonai, Hariko no Meijin (Watonai, as Master of Paper Mache) & (Daruma Dolls Terrifying their Makers) by Kawanabe Kyosai 'Gyosai'	Original Japanese Woodcut	c. 1881 - 1886	Yokaii (Watonai & Daruma Dolls)	Published by Okura Magobei (Okuraya) for the Kyosai Hyakuzu (One Hundred Pictures by Kyosai)

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