A Modern Version of Urashima Taro

Art Historical Context

In the vibrant world of th-century Edo Japan, Torii Kiyomasu II crafted *A Modern Version of Ur Taro*, a hand-colored woodblock print from the1730s. This hosoban-format piece—narrow and intimate at 30.2 × 14.7 cm—reimagines the beloved folktale of Urashima T, the fisherman who rescues a magical turtle and journeys to the Dragon King's underwater palace, only to age centuries upon his return. Kiyomasu II, from the pioneering Torii school of ukiyo-e artists, infuses the scene with contemporary flair, likely drawing from kabuki theater's dramatic adaptations to appeal to urban audiences craving escapist entertainment. The print's urushi-e technique, using lacquer for a glossy sheen, exemplifies early woodblock innovations that enhanced color vibrancy and durability before full-color nishiki-e prints emerged. Hand-coloring added luminous depth, making these affordable images pop in teahouses and merchant homes. As a yakusha-e (actor print) specialist, Kiyomasu II captured dynamic poses and expressive faces, bridging folklore with the theater world's star power. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Arts of Asia department, this work highlights ukiyo-e's cultural role in democratizing art during Japan's Genroku era. It reflects how timeless myths evolved into "modern" spectacles, blending tradition with the fleeting pleasures of urban life.

About the Artist

Torii Kiyomasu II · 1706–1763

At one point this artist was incorrectly identified as Kiyonobu II.