The artwork, named “118. Kitsunebi on New Year’s Night Under the Enoki Tree near Ōji,” was created by Hiroshige in 1857. It is a woodblock print belonging to the Ukiyo-e art movement and combines the landscape and animal painting genres. This piece is part of the series “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo.”
The artwork depicts a serene, nocturnal scene under an ancient, leafless Enoki tree. The night sky is rendered in a deep, velvety blue, contrasted by a multitude of foxes, each adorned with glowing, otherworldly flames, known as Kitsunebi, on their tails. The foxes congregate around the venerable tree, contributing to a mystical atmosphere. The meticulous detailing and delicate gradations of color showcase the artist’s exquisite craftsmanship and mastery over the woodblock print medium. The landscape unfolds with a tranquil yet eerie ambiance, capturing a blend of natural beauty and folklore.
