Liu Bang Killing a White Snake 1832

Totoya Hokkei created "Liu Bang Killing a White Snake" using woodblock print during the Edo period in Japan. Hokkei was a student of the great Hokusai, and his work often reflects the popular culture and stories of his time. This print illustrates a pivotal moment in the legend of Liu Bang, who would become the first emperor of the Han Dynasty. The white snake is a symbol, often interpreted as a metaphor for rebellion and chaos. Liu Bang's act can be seen as the suppression of dissent and the establishment of order, a narrative that was politically charged. This story resonated deeply in a society often dealing with internal conflict and power struggles. How does Hokkei’s portrayal invite us to think about the relationship between power, rebellion, and the narratives that shape our understanding of history and leadership?