Noh Dancer as Empress Jingû with a Trout
Yamawaki Tōki
Description
Yamawaki Tōki 山脇東暉
Japan, 1777–1839
Noh Dancer as Empress Jingū with a Trout
Edo period (1615–1868)
1831
Hanging scroll, ink and color on silk
Museum purchase made possible by the Margaret Watson Parker Art
Collection Fund, 1983/1.397
This painting features the third-century Empress Jingū as played by a
Noh dancer whose form is largely obscured by heavy garments and a
white mask. Although Empress Jingū is commemorated with a tomb,
she is now regarded as a legendary figure. The manner in which she is
represented here, hundreds of years later, reflects a sense of ambiguity
over her status. For example, the naturalistic depiction of her robes—
as seen in the subtle shading around its creases—creates a sense of
volume, anchoring her in the real world. At the same time, she appears
to float untethered to this world—as suggested by her lack of feet and
the absence of a ground. This otherworldly feel is reinforced by the
flattened and abstract treatment of Jingū’s inner robes. While this
combination of techniques amplifies her liminal status, the way the
painting is mounted speaks to her status as a mythical figure: the
brocade borders, as well as the silk support, were often used in the
depiction of Buddhist deities.
(Japanese Gallery Rotation, Summer 2025)
Subject Matter:
Empress Jingû is a figure from Japan’s mythological past. Warrior and shaman, her legend reappears frequently in Japanese drama, paintings, and prints. Before leading her troops on an invasion of the "Land of Treasure" (Korea), she conducted many rites to consult the gods about prospects for victory. The catch of a river trout was the first token of divine approval.
This painting depicts the fishing scene as it was reenacted in the Noh drama, the classical and highly stylized dance-drama of Japan. Male performers play both genders, usually with a mask. Costumes for the Noh stage are among the most spectacular ever made: here the actor wears a brocade kimono with a floral scroll design, tucked into a stiffly starched pair of brocade trousers. His cloak is a green gauze silk with woven gold phoenix designs. The costume has no relation to ancient history, but instead reflects contemporary stage wear.
Physical Description:
An masked Noh actor dressed as Empress Jingû is holds a catch of a river trout on a pole. The actor wears a brocade kimono with a floral scroll design, tucked into a stiffly starched pair of brocade trousers. His cloak is a green gauze silk with woven gold phoenix designs.
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