The artwork, titled “Prince Hanzoku terrorised by a nine-tailed fox,” was created by the artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi and belongs to the Ukiyo-e art movement. This piece falls within the genre of mythological painting. The scene depicted is vibrant and dramatic; it portrays a pivotal and intense moment from Japanese mythology, where a ferocious nine-tailed fox menaces Prince Hanzoku. The artwork captures the chaotic encounter with dynamic motion, evident in the ferocity of the fox and the startled reaction of Prince Hanzoku.
In this composition, the fox appears in a striking, aggressive posture as it lunges towards the prince with multiple, serpentine tails swirling about, each tail adding to the eerie and supernatural aura of the creature. Prince Hanzoku is depicted in a state of alarm, his body contorted as he attempts to defend himself against the mystical beast. Vibrant colors and intricate details are prominent in Kuniyoshi’s portrayal, underscoring the height of tension and the mythological significance of the scene. The artwork masterfully blends the fantastical elements with expressive human reactions, capturing the viewer’s imagination and immersing them into the dramatic episode.
