Urashima Tarō Riding on a Tortoise

Art Historical Context

Kawanabe Kyōsai’s *Urashima Tarō Riding on a Tortoise* captures a beloved moment from Japanese folklore. The legendary fisherman, having saved a sea turtle, rides the creature to the Dragon Palace beneath the waves. Rendered in delicate ink and color on silk, the hanging scroll format invites quiet contemplation, its vertical composition guiding the viewer’s eye along the journey from sea surface to mysterious depths. Created after 1888 during Japan’s Meiji period, the painting reflects a time when traditional subjects met modern artistic experimentation. Kyōsai, celebrated for his lively brushwork and witty reinterpretations of classical themes, brings fresh energy to this tale of kindness and wonder. The silk support and vibrant pigments highlight the artist’s mastery of both ukiyo-e traditions and the expressive possibilities of the era. This work offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich storytelling heritage while showcasing the technical refinement of Meiji-period painting. Its modest scale encourages intimate viewing, much as such scrolls were originally displayed in homes or temples.

About the Artist

Kawanabe Kyōsai 河鍋暁斎 (Japanese) · 1831 –1889

Japanese, 1831–1889