Thunder gods peeping at a beauty through a telescope c. 1782

Here is a woodblock print by Torii Kiyonaga, titled “Thunder gods peeping at a beauty through a telescope.” During the Edo period, ukiyo-e prints gained prominence, reflecting the era’s emphasis on pleasure and entertainment. Kiyonaga distinguished himself by portraying women in a refined, idealized manner, setting a new standard of beauty in Japanese art. His figures often possessed an elegant poise, embodying the era’s aspirations. In this print, Kiyonaga juxtaposes the divine and the earthly realms, subtly critiquing the voyeuristic tendencies of power. The thunder gods, symbols of might and authority, are reduced to peeping Toms, undermining the traditional reverence for the divine. The print invites reflection on the male gaze and its impact on women’s lives, hinting at the power dynamics that often shape perceptions and interactions. This work serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in the act of seeing and being seen.