Ōiko Squeezing the Arm of a Wrestler

Artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 月岡芳年 (Japanese, 1839–1892)

Date1876

Mediumwoodblock print; ink and color on paper

DimensionsOban: 37.2 × 25.3 cm (14 5/8 × 9 15/16 in.)

ClassificationsPrints

Credit LineAlexander H. Bullock Fund

Terms

Object number2002.116

DescriptionYoshitoshi produced many images of valorous female figures from Japanese history, both inspirational models of behavior and vehicles for publishing pictures of beautiful women. The strongwoman Oiko, after being rudely propositioned by a wrestler, easily overpowered him. With a completely unperturbed expression, she grips his arm with an iron strength that he can’t escape. Matsuko’s sword fighting outmatched all her male opponents. Despite the similar facial expressions, the dynamic tension in Matsuko’s pose, extending past the borders of the print, contrasts with Oiko’s stoic placidity.
Label TextYoshitoshi produced many images of valorous female figures from Japanese history, both inspirational models of behavior and vehicles for publishing pictures of beautiful women. The strongwoman Oiko, after being rudely propositioned by a wrestler, easily overpowered him. With a completely unperturbed expression, she grips his arm with an iron strength that he can’t escape. Matsuko’s sword fighting outmatched all her male opponents. Despite the similar facial expressions, the dynamic tension in Matsuko’s pose, extending past the borders of the print, contrasts with Oiko’s stoic placidity.ProvenanceKatie and Scott McDonald, Rochester, NY

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