Sakata Kinpira Nyudo

early 18th century

Not on view

Masanobu combines the framed observer with another popular compositional device, the picture within a picture, for a humorous effect. Sakata Kinpira Nyudo is a legendary strong man in children's stories, in which he wrestles with wild beasts and goblins. Here he has been brought to the ground by drink. He leans his fierce head against a cask of sake; a giant, empty sake cup stands at his side. A painting of Daruma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, hangs in the alcove behind him. Legend has it that Daruma meditated for nine years, during which he resisted all manner of temptations with which demons besieged him. The irises below his portrait signify victory. Daruma gives this hero, who holds a string of Buddhist prayer beads in his hand, a reproachful look because of his lack of fortitude.

Artwork Details

Title: Sakata Kinpira Nyudo
Artist: Okumura Masanobu (Japanese, 1686–1764)
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
Date: early 18th century
Culture: Japan
Medium: Monochrome woodblock print; ink and color on paper
Dimensions: 9 7/8 x 14 3/4 in. (25.1 x 37.5 cm)
Classification: Prints
Credit Line: Gift of Estate of Samuel Isham, 1914
Object Number: JP816
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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Kabuki Play Kusazuribiki from the Tales of Soga (Soga
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Triptych of Umbrellas, Okumura Masanobu Japanese, Undivided triptych of woodblock prints; ink and color on paper, Japan — Triptych of Umbrellas
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