The artwork entitled “Thaishun with elephants” by Utagawa Kuniyoshi is a genre painting of the Ukiyo-e art movement.
The artwork portrays a serene, yet dynamic scene featuring two large, white elephants amidst a flock of flying birds. The elephants are depicted with elegant curves and a gentle demeanor, one of them being at the forefront while the other follows behind. A man dressed in a red garment stands near one of the elephants, engaged in activity with a tool in his hand. The background reveals a tranquil landscape of mountains and water, which complements the naturalistic and engaging subject matter. The composition is meticulously balanced, incorporating elements of both human and animal interaction within a picturesque setting.