Ghost of wetnurse Igarashi 1852 - 1859

This woodblock print, by Utagawa Kunisada, depicts the Ghost of wetnurse Igarashi. Dominating the image, the spectral figure, with disheveled hair and bloodied hands, embodies the vengeful spirit, a powerful motif in Japanese folklore, reflecting deep-seated fears and societal anxieties. This motif of the vengeful spirit echoes across cultures and epochs. We find parallels in the ancient Greek Furies or the restless ghosts of Celtic lore. Here, the bloodied hands and haunting gaze transcend mere representation; they tap into our collective memory, stirring primal fears of injustice and unresolved trauma. The ghost's appearance, marked by pallor and disarray, visually signifies a disruption of the natural order. Like the Erinyes, the wetnurse returns, not as a benevolent figure, but as a harbinger of retribution. The motif evolves, adapting to different cultural landscapes, yet retains its core essence: the psychological weight of unresolved conflict. These images act as potent conduits, engaging viewers on a visceral level, reminding us of the cyclical nature of history.