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The Wicked Thoughts of the Priest Raigo of Miidera Transform Him into a Rat, 1891. Creator: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
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The Wicked Thoughts of the Priest Raigo of Miidera Transform Him into a Rat, 1891. Creator: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
The Wicked Thoughts of the Priest Raigo of Miidera Transform Him into a Rat, 1891. Series: New Forms of the Thirty-six Ghosts
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Media ID 36368469
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Changing Destroying Folk Story Folk Tale Ghost Story Historic Figure Historical Person Legend Legendary Meiji Era Meiji Period Mii Temple Miidera New Forms Of The Thirty Six Ghosts Otsu Shiga Prefecture Kinki Japan Asia Priest Story Taiso Transforming Tsukioka Yoshitoshi Vengeance Yoshitoshi Tsukioka
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Wicked Thoughts of the Priest Raigo of Miidera Transform Him into a Rat," a captivating woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi in 1891, is a mesmerizing piece from his series "New Forms of the Thirty-six Ghosts." Set in the Meiji Era of Japan (1868-1912), this full-length print depicts a solitary figure, the infamous Raigo, a priest from Miidera Temple in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, Kinki region of Japan. The intriguing narrative behind this image stems from a popular Japanese folk tale. Raigo, once a virtuous and respected priest, was corrupted by his wicked thoughts, leading him to commit a heinous act. As a consequence, he was transformed into a rat, a common motif in Japanese ghost stories representing infidelity and betrayal. In the print, Raigo is shown standing indoors, wearing his priestly robes, now tattered and worn. A rat, with piercing eyes, gnaws on the hem of his robe. The once vibrant colors of his clothing have faded, reflecting the despair and shame that now consume him. The interior setting, with its dim lighting, adds to the ominous atmosphere, creating a sense of isolation and introspection. The intricate details of the print, from the folds in Raigo's robes to the textures of the rat's fur, are a testament to Yoshitoshi's mastery of the woodblock printing technique. The contrast between the once revered figure and his current state as a rat serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of wicked thoughts and actions. This piece, now preserved in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), is a significant contribution to the rich heritage of Japanese art and folklore. It invites us to explore the depths of human nature, the power of transformation, and the enduring allure of Japanese ghost stories.
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