Humorous picture showing Chinese religious practices (Raijin

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Humorous picture showing Chinese religious practices (Raijin

Humorous picture showing Chinese religious practices (Raijin, the Japanese God of Thunder, ranting to a crowd of Chinese Buddhist worshippers). Date 1895

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 7359568

© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10605564

Buddhist Practices Thunder Worshippers Woodblocks Woodcuts

EDITORS COMMENTS
This humorous woodblock print from 1895 depicts Raijin, the Japanese God of Thunder, engaging in a lively rant before a crowd of Chinese Buddhist worshippers. Raijin, often depicted as a rotund, mischievous figure with a drum and a rattle, is shown here with a furrowed brow and outstretched arms, as if delivering an impassioned sermon. The expression on the faces of the worshippers ranges from rapt attention to amusement, reflecting the playful and irreverent nature of the scene. The woodblock print, which is part of a larger series of Japanese prints depicting Chinese subjects, showcases the rich cultural exchange that took place between Japan and China during the late 19th century. Woodblock printing was a popular art form in both countries, and artists often borrowed motifs and techniques from one another. Despite the lighthearted tone of the print, it also reflects the complex religious landscape of East Asia during this period. Buddhism, which originated in India but had spread throughout East Asia, was practiced in various forms and syncretized with local deities and beliefs. Raijin, who was originally a Shinto deity, had been adopted into Buddhism as a protector of the Dharma, or Buddhist teachings. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the woodblock print bring the scene to life, transporting us back in time to a moment of cultural exchange and religious syncretism. The print serves as a reminder of the rich and complex history of East Asian art and religion, and the enduring influence of these traditions on contemporary culture.

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