Kyosai Woodblock Print: Slaying Tigers; Entering Waters, Beheading Dragons 1886

approx. 25 x 36.8 cm. tear with repair on back, little tears on edge, stains, overall feeling of use and aging, please see photos for details.

Kawanabe Kyōsai – Genroku Yamato Nishiki: Ascending Mountains, Slaying Tigers; Entering Waters, Beheading Dragons

This dynamic woodblock print by Kawanabe Kyōsai is from the series Genroku Yamato Nishiki, depicting heroic warriors inspired by Japanese history and legend. The title quotes a classical Chinese phrase meaning, “Ascending the mountains, one slays tigers and leopards; entering the waters, one beheads dragons.” The tiger, leopard, and dragon symbolize formidable enemies and extraordinary challenges, making the inscription a celebration of unmatched courage and martial valor. Kyōsai's bold composition and expressive style exemplify the dramatic warrior prints of the Meiji period.

Primary Material: Paper

Artist: 河鍋暁斎

Original/Reproduction: Antique Original

Technique: Woodblock print

Work name: 元禄日本錦 登山則戮虎豹入水則斬蛟龍

Age: 1886

Country of Origin: Japan