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The Blind Men and the Elephant. Japanese woodblock print from the Manga of Katsushika Hokusai, 1817

The Blind Men and the Elephant. Japanese woodblock print from the Manga of Katsushika Hokusai, 1817



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The Blind Men and the Elephant. Japanese woodblock print from the Manga of Katsushika Hokusai, 1817

HOKUSAI: ELEPHANT.
The Blind Men and the Elephant. Japanese woodblock print from the Manga of Katsushika Hokusai, 1817

Granger holds millions of images spanning more than 25,000 years of world history, from before the Stone Age to the dawn of the Space Age

Media ID 7959793

1817 Blind Edo Period Elephant Hokusai Japan Japanese Katsushika Manga Parable Wood Block


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EDITORS COMMENTS
This woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, titled "The Blind Men and the Elephant" takes us back to early 19th century Japan during the Edo period. The intricate details and vibrant colors of this artwork transport us into a world where storytelling through art was highly valued. Inspired by an ancient parable, Hokusai masterfully depicts a scene where several blind men are examining an elephant. Each man is shown touching a different part of the magnificent creature - its trunk, tail, tusk, or leg - trying to understand its true nature based solely on their limited perception. Through this visual narrative, Hokusai invites viewers to reflect upon the human tendency to form incomplete judgments based on individual experiences and perspectives. The artist's skillful use of line work and shading brings life to each character in this manga-inspired piece. As we gaze at this woodblock print from 1817, we are reminded of the timeless power of art in conveying profound messages across cultures and generations. It serves as a testament to Hokusai's artistic genius and his ability to capture both beauty and meaning within a single frame. "The Blind Men and the Elephant" continues to captivate audiences today with its rich symbolism and thought-provoking themes. This masterpiece stands as a testament not only to Japanese artistry but also as an enduring reminder that understanding can only be achieved when we embrace multiple perspectives.

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