Ibaraki [right of a pair] 1882

This striking image of Ibaraki, the demon, is part of a pair of paintings by Shibata Zeshin, likely created in the late 19th century, a time of significant social and cultural change in Japan as it opened up to the West. Zeshin, who lived through this transition, was known for revitalizing traditional Japanese art forms, blending them with new influences. Here, Ibaraki is depicted with wild hair, sharp claws, and a fierce expression, embodying untamed power. Yet, the demon’s clothing hints at a complex identity – a mix of brutality and cultural refinement. Historically, demons in Japanese folklore often represent the fears and anxieties of society, acting as scapegoats for human failings. Zeshin’s portrayal invites us to consider the demon not just as a monster, but as a figure embodying the tensions between tradition and modernity, control and chaos. How does this image make you feel about the boundaries between the human and the monstrous?