part of a 2 scroll set (written on the paper inside the box)

Actor Arashi Sangorō I Performing the "Catching the Fox" Dance, c. 1726

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Kiyonobu depicts the famous actor Arashi Sangorō I (1687–1739) in the play Tsurigitsune (Catching the Fox). In traditional Japanese stories, foxes are capable of changing into human form to trick unsuspecting humans. According to this story, an old fox changes into a priest to escape being hunted. He boldly reminds the hunter about the Buddhist commandments against taking life and eating meat, and the ruse seems to work.

On the way home, however, the “priest” encounters a baited trap and cannot resist the enticing smell of roasted rat. He transforms back into a fox, takes the food, and is caught. Here, Sangorō performs the transformation dance. He wears a fox mask on the back of his head, allowing him to shift between man and fox simply by turning one way or the other.

Details
Title
Actor Arashi Sangorō I Performing the "Catching the Fox" Dance
Artist Life
1664 - 1729
Role
Artist
Accession Number
74.1.23
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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part of a 2 scroll set (written on the paper inside the box)