untitled (pedestrians at stall of physiognomist and palm reader), Ryōko

Artwork Overview

Ryōko, untitled (pedestrians at stall of physiognomist and palm reader)
Ryōko, untitled (pedestrians at stall of physiognomist and palm reader)
Ryōko
untitled (pedestrians at stall of physiognomist and palm reader)
1870s, Meiji period (1868–1912)
untitled (pedestrians at stall of physiognomist and palm reader), 1870s, Meiji period (1868–1912)
Where object was made: Japan
Material/technique: color woodcut
Dimensions:
Image Dimensions Height/Width (Height x Width): 350 x 242 mm
Image Dimensions Height/Width (Height x Width): 13 3/4 x 9 1/2 in
Sheet/Paper Dimensions (Height x Width): 350 x 244 mm
Sheet/Paper Dimensions (Height x Width): 13 3/4 x 9 5/8 in
Mat Dimensions (Height x Width): 19 x 14 in
Credit line: Source unknown
Accession number: 0000.2953
Not on display
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Exhibition Label: “Embodiment,” Nov-2005, Kate Meyer The texts and other clues in this print, which was probably part of a triptych, clearly concern palm reading and physiognomy as well as a type of fortune telling based on the I-Ching (the Book of Changes). The fortune teller holds a batch of the thin sticks used for casting lots. From the inscriptions it is clear that the three men have gotten into some sort of difficult situation and that they fear for their lives. The fortune teller is saying: “Dear customer, looking at the top of your hand, I see many approaching enemies. Looking at the bottom of your hand I see the same. But if you go ahead and invite your enemies to come near, then you will have plenty of.....” Alas, the answer is doubtless on the next print, which the Spencer Museum lacks.