“The Hag,” a work by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, belongs to the Ukiyo-e art movement and is classified within the portrait genre.
The artwork portrays an elderly woman, often referencing the motif of a hag within Japanese folklore. She is depicted with pronounced wrinkles and an intense, somewhat menacing expression, emphasizing the raw and rugged attributes of her age. Her hair, stark white and voluminous, contrasts vividly with the dark background. The woman appears to be engaged with nature, as green vines and leaves surround her figure. Her garments are depicted in various shades, further accentuating the intricate and expressive line work characteristic of Yoshitoshi’s style. The backdrop features foliage and calligraphy, providing a contextual and cultural depth to the work. The piece masterfully blends an eerie atmosphere with fine detailing, typical of Ukiyo-e’s intricate portraiture.
