I
really like the contradictions in this colorful Oni(no)Kanabo painting by Sato
Katsuhiko. The image portrayed is known as an Oni with an iron club which has
come to mean a variety of things from ultimate resolve and determination to
herculean strength however the oni portrayed doesn't exactly give one the sense
of unwavering power and resolve rather he has a look of being a bit undecided
and even a bit unsure of himself. It may just be how I perceive the
semi-comical nature of this oni based a bit on folk painting and even Otsu-e
but Sato has a sly wit and it shows in his painting and even his pottery and
their decoration so I am going with the intended contradiction of image and
action. At any rate it is a thoroughly enjoyable and vivid image brushed in a
quick and bold style that is sure to get your attention. Though it is a bit
premature, all I can think to say is; "Oni go out, blessings come in"
(Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi! 鬼は外！福は内！") as Setsubun is right around the corner.
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