The Tale of Shuten DÅji
Classification
Painting
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchase â funds provided by the Friends of Asian Arts
Accession Number
F1998.26.3
Tags
Edo period (1615 - 1868)JapanJapanese ArtShuten DojiTale of Shuten Doji
About this artwork
This scroll from a set of three portrays the tale of the killing of Shuten Doji, a giant who lived in a mountain fortress and periodically kidnapped and devoured young noblewomen from Kyoto. Set in the tenth century, the story celebrates the exploits of the warrior known as Raiko. With his band of warriors disguised as Buddhist monks, Raiko locates and enters Shuten Dojiâs fortress. There they kill the giant after he falls asleep from drinking a wine potion.