Pop Japan

Tigers in Japanese art, especially in irezumi or the traditional tattoo practice, are said to represent strength and courage. And this painting by Kawanabe Kyosai is no exception. Though sitting up, the tiger's eyes are as fierce as ever, with the impression that the tiger, which is a painting within a painting, will just jump out to life.

Kyosai used watercolor and ink to transform this tiger to life. One of Kyosai's influences during the Edo period was Tohaku. The latter specialized in ink painting on a delicate powdered gold background, which he had practiced during the 16th century Japan.

Tags: tradition, tiger, japan, irezumi, tattoo, kawanabe kyosai, watercolor, tohaku, edo period