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An imitation of a print originally done in 1868 by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi: Warrior on Skull; Kintoki Overpowering a Demon
A linoleum plate is hand-carved and then printed on acid-free paper. Unlike a computer image the ink sits on top of the paper and the printing process impresses the image into the paper as well. The image is shipped unmounted so that you may frame or otherwise mount it as you desire. The image is printed on 8.5″ x 11″ paper and then signed and dated.
Who is Sakata Kintoki? Sakata no Kintoki was a warrior of uncanny strength in the Heian period (794-1185), better known by his childhood name “Kintaro” but also known as “Kaido-maru” the “strong child”. He was born in Ashigara in Suruga province (eastern Shizuoka prefecture today). After coming of age, he served Minamoto no Yorimitsu, eventually becoming his right-hand minister and one of his Four Celestial Kings. When Shuten Doji and his band of Oni descended from the mountain to terrorize Kyoto, Kintoki went with Yorimitsu to their lair and is said to have defeated them with ease. He died of a sudden illness while on an expedition, but he was so beloved by the people for his gentle nature and incredible strength that he continued to be worshipped as a god, sometimes even taking physical form in the world again. He used to turn bright red when exerting himself, with his cheeks an even deeper crimson, and red “Kintoki” beans are named after him.
