Shoki Fighting for a Courtesan

Description

Kaigetsudō Ando specialized in subjects of the “floating world,” or ukiyo-e, such as courtesans, actors, and their clientele. He is known today for elaborately detailed, full-length portraits of beautiful women. This painting is a rare example of the artist’s depiction of multiple figures engaged in a narrative: Shoki, a demon-destroyer, fends off pursuers while his demon servant carries off a courtesan.

Shoki originates from Chinese mythology, in which he is known as Zhong Kui. In China, he is regarded as an auspicious figure related to the exorcism of demons during New Years’ celebrations. Here, instead of chasing demons, Shoki escapes with a demon and a Japanese courtesan. As the artist’s inscription describes, this painting is a comic picture (giga). By decontextualizing Shoki and placing him within a Japanese realm, paired with a courtesan, the artist has created a humorous picture on multiple levels.