The artwork titled “Rokurokubi” by renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai is a distinguished example of the Ukiyo-e art movement, a Japanese genre of woodblock prints and paintings that flourished from the 17th to 19th centuries. This piece, categorized under the genre of mythological painting, forms part of “The Hundred Poems” series.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with an ethereal and slightly unsettling depiction of a Rokurokubi, a mythical creature from Japanese folklore known for its ability to stretch its neck to great lengths. The central figure, draped in traditional clothing, appears to be engaged in a domestic task, while her elongated neck twists and winds through the composition, creating a sense of surrealism. The detailed rendering of the figure and the delicate patterns of the garments exemplify Hokusai’s mastery in capturing the intricacies of both the fantastical and the mundane. The subdued color palette and fine line work are characteristic of the Ukiyo-e style, further emphasizing the eerie yet captivating nature of this mythological scene.
