Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s Purr-fect Japanese Woodblock Prints

In Ukiyo-e prints by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, a portion features a clever presentation of anthropomorphized cats as protagonists. This “cat-human” portrayal skillfully preserves the feline traits while vividly showcasing the charisma of the depicted characters. Whether portraying graceful Kabuki actors, solemn warriors, or transforming cats into humanoid or supernatural beings, the artwork, seemingly focused on cats, dynamically interprets the everyday life of commoners in the Edo period. Cats play a central role in the artwork, bringing Edo vibes to life.

Utagawa Kuniyoshi ingeniously utilizes the image of cats, showcasing their adorable, charming, and amusing facets. Focusing on cats as a theme, he creates numerous humorous Ukiyo-e prints, such as “Cats’ substitute characters(猫の当字).” In this piece, cats form the visual representation of words, assembling various fish names, providing the audience with a mischievously humorous sensation. Similarly, “One Hundred Ghost Tales(金魚づくし・百ものがたり)” depicts popular Edo period ghost stories known as “One Hundred Tales(Hyakumonogatari).” The appearance of the last bewitching cat surprises the anthropomorphized goldfish, presenting the lovable charm of goldfish. Although the cat images vary in these works, the artist’s unique and humorous touch highlights the diverse allure of cats, offering viewers a delightful visual experience in each piece.

Although the protagonists of these paintings may appear to be cats on the surface, the artist’s intent was to convey contemplations on the diverse aspects of the world. During that era, Ukiyo-e artists often depicted renowned Kabuki actors in the form of anthropomorphized animals to navigate the political censorship imposed by the Tokugawa shogunate. These constraints sometimes paradoxically stimulated greater creativity and possibilities, likely contributing to the diverse nature of Ukiyo-e. The brushstrokes of Ukiyo-e artists served not only as a showcase of artistic skill but also as a response to the societal and cultural changes of the time, expressing a personal perspective on the pulsating rhythm of the era. Beyond the portrayal of cats, Ukiyo-e artists like Utagawa Kuniyoshi used their brushstrokes to capture the diverse aspects of life during the Edo period, intertwining personal insights with societal changes.