Susanō no mikoto 1880

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi created this woodblock print titled ‘Susanō no mikoto’. It presents a visual experience dominated by dynamic diagonals and a rich, almost tactile, layering of textures. This immediately evokes a sense of drama and tension. Yoshitoshi masterfully uses diagonal lines to create a sense of movement and instability. The jagged edges of the landscape, combined with the swirling patterns of the robes, disrupt any sense of calm. The textured surface of the print enhances the visual effect, giving the artwork a tangible quality, particularly the intricate details of the landscape and the robes. The use of color as a signifier in the artwork offers an interesting perspective. The contrasting colors create a visual hierarchy that guides the eye and emphasizes the interplay between the divine and earthly realms. The composition serves to destabilize established meanings, inviting viewers to question fixed narratives and embrace the dynamic nature of reality. The formal qualities of the artwork function not just aesthetically, but as part of a larger cultural and philosophical discourse.